Night 11: New York
The North American leg of David’s sell-out ‘On An Island’ tour kicks off tonight, with the first of two shows in New York.
With many of our most prolific Fan Farers in attendance, we expect to be positively overwhelmed by details.
That said, if you’re new here and haven’t posted before, now’s the time to get stuck in. We want to hear from you!
As is always the case (but still has to be said), if you don‘t want to know the setlist, please don’t read the following comments. The songs performed will almost certainly be revealed here during the course of the night, and we don’t wish to spoil the surprise for anyone who will be witnessing a later concert and hopes to stay in blissful ignorance until that special moment arrives.
So enjoy yourself if you’re going to be at Radio City Music Hall tonight and remember: Don’t be shy. We want to hear all about it.
On a serious note, it was very disappointing to learn of the way certain fans behaved at JFK airport upon David’s landing. Please bear in mind that David’s family are with him and think how you would feel if your family was being hassled in this manner. It isn’t much fun to be pestered for autographs and photographs constantly, and touring is a completely new experience for David’s younger children.
We are sure that this was a one-off, but everyone in the touring party would greatly appreciate it if, for the sake of their young children, more courtesy could be shown throughout the remainder of their stay in the US. Thank you.
Setlist……anybody……please?
[Give people a chance to get back from the concert! - Features Editor]
Here’s the setlist for tonight’s show. Special guests were indeed David Crosby and Graham Nash, who sang on three songs – marked with an asterix (*) – as well as performing one Crosby, Stills and Nash song.
First half: Castellorizon, This Heaven, Smile, Red Sky At Night, Take A Breath, Then I Close My Eyes, On An Island*, The Blue*, Pocketful Of Stones, Where We Start.
Second half: Shine On You Crazy Diamond*, Wearing The Inside Out, Dominoes, Fat Old Sun, Breathe/Time/Breathe (Reprise), High Hopes, Echoes.
Encores: Wish You Were Here, Find The Cost Of Freedom (an old CSN song taken from their double live album ‘Four Way Street’), Comfortably Numb.
I was supposed to be there Tuesday night. My husband is there. He won the KLOS contest from Los Angeles. I am so sad I couldn’t go due to work – had to stay in Los Angeles. Please let me know in detail how it went. I worked really late – so I wouldn’t have to think about missing it.
So sorry to hear about the airport. There are many truely gracious fans who care and we certainly wouldn’t want any of this to sour the tour.
Details on the concert I missed????? Every little detail please!!!!
It would appear as if the disdain put forth by the other DG fans on here will do justice, though I simply would like to express my agreement with the majority of the thoughts expressed by the other fans. It’s absolutely putrid to see such a display and hear such reports. Regardless, tonight was a nightmare turned around. I discoverd earlier in the evening my tickets had vanished and I went into a panic state, searched my home for five hours, haven’t felt so, so drained & sad in a long time. Only to discover hours later it was a family miscommunication, they were here all along! I was ecsatic to say the least. Anyway, I notice the setlist has not been posted as of yet, makes the anticipation rise. This will be the best show of my life, at the age of twenty-one, I’m sure of it. I was excited to see the comments posted about David Crosby & Graham Nash posted on the home site, another priceless treat for the fans. See you all the attendes tomorrow!
Just got back. A fantastic show, truly wonderful music. The new stuff really transfers nicely when performed live. That raw edge, an inevitable element of live performance, works so well with OAI material. Was curious how A Pocketful Of Stones would come off, and it did indeed. Add to that the amazing treat of Graham Nash & David Crosby singing on OAI, The Blue, Shine On and a special encore trio harmonizing take on the CSN song, the name of which I’ve misplaced in my brain. That was quite special. They sound terrific and are fun to watch.
So many wonderful moments too. Aside from David’s performance, which was powerful, lyrical, sharp and moving, both vocally and with the myriad of instruments including the sax, there was Phil Manzanera’s trippy guitar bits for Dominoes, Jon Carin playing slide??? And doing it quite well. Guy Pratt’s killer 1970 flavor bass for Fat Old Sun. And Echoes was, as others have mentioned, magical. It sounds so present and powerful. The Gilmour/Wright vocals on this song in particular sent shivers down me spine. And that’s just for starters…
As for the audience singing along, the band may hold a different opinion, but from where I was sitting (near the mixing desk), the crowd actually seemed to be in tune!
But you know, these shows are never without warts. During the intermission, the toilet scene was SWAMPED and a riotous circus. RCMH is not really designed to accommodate this kind of human mass. Wise-cracking drunken guys pushing through tight crowds and urinating in sinks (alas, an age-old rock concert tradition)… Actually, looking back on it, it’s easy too laugh now.
Or maybe, Brad, it’s simply that we’re New Yorkers… Just joking! Though I would urge you not to judge a population by such a small cohort, I have to admit we are a ridiculous, unruly and often obnoxious lot. But that’s why you all love us so.
Anyway, for those who have tickets for an upcoming show, you are definitely in for a treat. For those who can’t make the shows, that DVD is gonna be something so cool.
“Echoes”…nothing more needs to be said!!!That was with out a doubt a mind blowing experience.The band was perfect not to mention Dave’s guitar playing throughout all 23 minutes
Watching him going off in the middle and hearing guitars coming out of every different speaker was unreal…. unbelievable show guys…MY HATS OFF TO YA!!!!!!
[Maybe it is time for this discussion to end, guys. - Features Editor]
Well, it is when you start editing messages to represent a different point of view. I said “to buildings” in my last post.
“If you agree to be my lookout while I paste ten foot tall paintings of people f*cking to buildings, we can discuss whatever it is you want to discuss.”. Some other words were deleted as well.
Hysteron proteron
[Criticising another person's use of the English language is uncalled for, sorry. - Features Editor]
After today’s theme at JFK. I’m surprised David and Polly didn’t leave with their children and head for An Island. They hopefully wouldn’t need pointy sticks there. Hope the shows in New York settles things down.
FED is Polly
[FED isn't Polly, Dan. FED would be in bed now if she were Polly. Look at the time. - Features Editor]
After reading Guy’s post, I think David, the Band and all family members definately need bodyguards equipped with pointy sticks!
[That's just not on, is it? Imagine how nerve-wracking a scene like that would be for a four-year old, then to get hit in the face by a complete stranger... Come on, I don't care how "thrilled" you are, that's appalling. - Features Editor]
David, Sorry to hear incident at arriving at JFK, I am sure Glasgow will be safer. I thought I would like an autograph when you passed me at mermaid, but realise that he doesnt matter. Its hard for some to accept but there are more important things in life. The trouble is those that cause problems dont read or accept feelings on this Site. There should be no celebrities, after all its only a job. I get fed up when I go out and get pestered by old ladies wnated me to repair their glasses( I am a glassblower!) so I can emphasise.
Ian Pearson
Holy Smokes…just got back from jeff beck, and didn’t know what could match it…now I do.
woohoo
BigAl
just checking the setlist before work as you know i have an addiction. fair play to you for getting up so early for us, ed. sounds like one hell of a show. sorry to hear about your little son getting hit in the face, guy. i can imagine how you explained it to him afterwards. at least he won’t use that disgusting word “awesome” to describe his thoughts on new york, so maybe a little good has come out of the experience! hopefully people will think twice about trying to get autographs now. how disappointing to read so many “well he should have expected it” posts. you’re right about the hormones, ed. i reckon some of the ladies never got a good enough chance to scream at the beatles, the monkees, the new kids, nysnc or whoever. i’m sure it gives david a right laugh. seriously, do you really think he wants to pose for photos, sign whatever’s shoved under his nose and be fondled by you loons? sheesh, he’s just an ordinary guy. give him a break. he doesn’t act like a celebrity so this must make him feel really uncomfortable. and no, he doesn’t get mobbed on a daily basis in london and neither does a cbe make him a member of the royal family. sheesh.
The show was fantastic! Highlights include David’s impeccable guitar and vocal performance throughout, the surprise appearance of Nash/Crosby, and the Echoes. The light show during Echoes was par with any Floyd show. I was a bit disappointed with the finale, however. I expected a light/laser extravaganza for Comfortably Numb but found it somewhat anti-climatic. While I’m complaining, there were two other minor disappointments: 1. the feedback during High Hopes; 2. those rotten kids behind me yelling “woo-hoo,” at the most in opportune times – during songs. Other than that, it was a great experience and well worth the agonizing train ride from Philadelphia. Thank you very much for a great night Mr. Gilmour. Thank you very much indeed.
I’m really surprised about the JFK crowd. DG fans are generally quite mature, so what’s it all about??? I didn’t know David had teenagers between his fans…;)
Features Editor, I was questioning his ability to grasp what I had said in the English language – he seemed to ignore what I had already written; he was asking questions that I though I had already answered – I naturally assumed that he didn’t comprehend what had actually been written. I wasn’t trying to mock him. I think there has been a communication failure somewhere here.
Hysteron proteron
[It seems so. However, if you aren't able or willing to discuss the matter further in Dutch, then I cannot allow such remarks. I do apologise for editing your post, but trust that you understand why it is often necessary for me to do so. I certainly would never twist anybody's words to represent a different point of view. This isn't the best facility to allow serious debate to flow. I for one have enjoyed your posts, but if this is going to turn into an argument - bearing in mind that it has nothing to do with David Gilmour - then it is my job to stop it. I hope you see my point and don't take it as a personal rejection. - Features Editor]
[How about... those big poles you stick in the ground to hold up tents? As you can probably tell, my grasp of the English language is now slipping away... - Features Editor]
Do you mean tent poles? :-)
[Yeah, that's the one! - Features Editor]
I must say I’m surprised not to mention disappointed to read some of the messages here suggesting that just because David is a ‘celebrity’ he should expect behaviour like that.
Well I’m sorry but that is utter bilge, nobody, but nobody deserves to be mobbed like that and more especially when they have got young children with them.
These are probably the same sort of people who come to my hometown looking for Roger Barrett, oh yes they think it’s fine to bang on his door and expect him to be accommodating in spite of his state of health.
Guy, I’m sorry to hear what happened to your son, it’s just not on it’s really not. I hope you and the rest of the band don’t have to put up with this again.
[Gosh, don't get me started on the way people hound poor Syd, for goodness sake! Sickening, isn't it? I appreciate the argument that famous people wouldn't be famous if not for the fans, but that does not give fans the right to invade anyone's privacy, be that stepping off a plane or going to the shops to buy a newspaper. I often wonder if the people who tend to make a nuisance of themselves by pestering celebrities would be able to cope as a celebrity with that level of attention. I imagine not. They'd probably revel in it for a while (I'm sure they're insanely jealous), but then they'd crack under the strain. How they could willingly and actively be a part of something which has induced many a celebrity breakdown, I do not know. They aren't helping Syd, that's for sure, and I'd imagine the sheer sight of those people at JFK - in all their greed and fanaticism - didn't exactly fill David with a great desire to tour again. Although the same people will demand that he tours again, of course. - Features Editor]
Now I REALLY wish I’d been to the show! This one really does appear to be one that will be written about in biographies for years to come.
What more can I say about the JFK thing… Perhaps this is a “teachable moment” for David’s children. Something like, “Let this be a cautionary tale of what happens when people become too unbalanced.” And really, isn’t that what it is? People losing their sense of interconnectedness, decency, RESPECT?
David, if you’re reading this, please know that the offensive behavior at JFK does not represent the spirit of America. Most people in this country, seeing a weary family disembark from a long international flight, would offer them a nice hot meal, a place to sleep…
Dear Fed,
Indeed very sad to hear about the very disrespectful treatment that Mr. Gilmour, his family and his accompanying band members received upon their arrival in New York.
One would assume plain old courtesy would keep people from behaving in such a manner.
Best wishes to everybody involved in the tour and of course to you, Feature Editor,
Ralph,
Belgium
[On the subject of JFK, a fan was forcing a copy of The Wall album under David's nose for him to sign, completely oblivious to my 4 year old son who he managed to hit, freaking him out and making him cry. Nice one.]
That’s absolutely outrageous, Guy. I hope that your son is alright. That sort of behaviour is totally uncalled for – not a good start at all. I hope that the rest of the tour isn’t marred with events of a similar nature.
Hysteron proteron
It’s strange for me to keep reading here about how David is a “celebrity”. As far as I am concerned a “celebrity” is someone who is contiually in the tabloids or magazines such as “Hello”. They are usually famous more for going to the right parties and selling photos of their homes and children a la Posh’n'Becks or Jordan’n'Peter or all the various Big Brother wannabes.
David on the otherhand is a musician who I have always considered to be rather shy of publicity. I’ve learned more about him in the past few weeks of reading this blog and various other sites than I’ve read in the past 30 years. He’s hardly Madonna, Elton John or George Michael, who have have been somewhat contraversial over the years. You rarely see his name in the papers – and if you do it’s generally to do with his charitable works.
In fact, off stage (and even on stage to some extent) he seems pretty anonymous. Most people wouldn’t recognise him if he sat next to them on the Tube and I certainly can’t imagine him ever getting mobbed in that way in his home country. I would imagine that 90% of the time he is able to go about his business, do the school runs, go to Tesco’s without anyone turning a hair. (Is that the right metaphore?)
When I’ve been to Pink Floyd concerts I’ve generally preferred to sit or stand a way back so as to get the full effect of the wonderful stage show and better sound, and the small people in the distance making that wonderful noise on stage have been just part of the whole experience rather than the main reason for going. (I’ve not put that very well, but I think what I mean to say is that when I go to see Eric Clapton I like to sit up front and watch Eric. When I see Pink Floyd I go for the whole and not the individuals). David has never gone out of his way to be a Mick Jagger, Elton, or Jimi Hendrix and draw huge attention to himself.
That’s why I feel so shocked about what happened at JFK and why I am annoyed to read that people think he should expect this sort of reaction. I’m sure he doesn’t.
I’m one of those hormonal women mentioned by previous bloggers(at 49 – mid lfe crisis etc – and yes, I admit it, I had some very hot flushes when I recently bought Mojo and a 25 year old David was staring provocatively at me from the front cover) but I would NEVER hassle anyone like that. Particularly when there are young children around. I am sure it wasn’t just women though. I would be willing to bet that the men were just as bad.
Over the years I have met most of my “idols” and like to think that they found me polite and unpushy. I might queue up after a gig for an autograph and a few words – but only if THEY are willing to give one.
I have even become quite friendly with some of my favourite musicians – but I give them space. I’m not going to bombard them with emails of phone calls etc. If they want to contact me, fine. If they want to come over for a chat before or after a gig, great. But it’s a privilege not a right – and I’m not going to go over and demand their attention.
I have seen several “famous people” out and about in London or even in my locality, the village where I grew up is full of famous faces from TV, radio, sports or the music industry but I would never dream of doing more than just nodding, smiling and saying “hello” if by chance our glances meeet. They are off duty, in their private time, and this should be respected. Just as a doctor at a wedding doesn’t want everyone coming up and asking them to diagnose their ailments.
David, Polly, Guy and the others were off duty. They should have been left alone, and it’s time that people learned respect.
Jane
(Rant over. Now where’s my tent pole? It’s time for me to sharpen the end…..)
[Here. You get a complimentary one for such a brilliant post. "Off duty" is such an accurate way of describing it. I also have trouble with the word "celebrity" and you are right to say that David can generally go about his business in Britain without being mobbed. I imagine it was mostly men who were doing the mobbing at the airport, but it seems that women have played the celebrity card here, arguing that David should have expected it because he's famous, which somehow makes harassing his family and the families of the other musicians more acceptable. With so many recent discussions about Christianity, it seems odd that we forget "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" so conveniently. If my four-year old got a smack in the mouth, I'd have been livid. - Features Editor]
One good listen to On An Island shows how David has transcended beyond Mr. Big Rock Star, that he is now more contented and dedicated to his family. We, the true fans count ourselves fortunate that he is touring, not out of necessity, but for the love of performing. Hopefully there won’t be more incidents of over-zealous fans (for lack of a better word) to ruin the experience for the band. Still looking forward to the Paramount show on the 17th!
Cheers!
To Lucia who questioned if she should go and see Roger Waters. My advice would be a resounding YES. He normally tours with Snowy White a more than able guitarist. You should listen to Snowys albums. All very very good. And lets not forget that, in ‘Amused to Death’, Roger Waters, in my humble opinion, gave us one of the greatest concept albums ever written. A real thought provoker.
After thought: Amused to Death – What better album to be listened to by a certain element after the events at JFK airport. What would the scenes had been like if Pink Floyd HAD taken up the offer of the American tour offered to them after live 8. I would not blame David if he chooses retirement after this tour.
Pete – Coventry
Dear Guy,
I’m sorry to hear about the incident at the airport. I hope your son feels better now.
On another note, I just finished reading Nick Mason’s book ‘Inside Out’ In there is a part about you’and Jon Carin which reminded me of your upset stomach a couple of weeks ago.
‘They were a hard-working group of musicians, who regularly – Jon Carin particularly – reviewed the tapes of the previous night’s show to try and note any imperfections. Their professionalism was impeccable: even if Guy Pratt was the last out of the bar the night – or morning – before, his playing was faultless on stage, a tribute to his iron constitution or the fact that our music was too easy.’
So either you were really, really sick a couple of weeks ago, or the music was too easy…..Probably the first of the two.
This quote also shows the amount of work Jon Carin puts in a show like this! 3 Cheers for Jon!
Hello. Despite understanding the point of your comments i still do not understand what is negative about fans. You are entering all the information about how good Mr.Gilmour album is selling – but you do not want people to show up and demonstrate their affection for Mr.Gilmour – when it is in his interest to be in the spotlight ?What would it be the point otherwise of all the advertising campaign ? I believe you should be more careful in the tones that are being used.
[Fans can demonstrate their affection for David and the other musicians at the concerts by applauding at the end of each song. They can buy the album and tell people about it. They can write a letter or leave a message here to say how much his music means to them. A noisy gang pushing and shoving one another at an airport, looking for autographs and photos, is probably not the best way to demonstrate affection - especially when children end up getting hurt. I'm sorry to say it, but people were at JFK for themselves. They were there to get something, not to give David anything. This is what I consider to be negative and it applies to some, but not all, fans. - Features Editor]
new yorkers have passion unlike any other folks. also NYC has some of the largest amount of passionate Floyd fans – and they are not shy about expressing their love. no harm was meant Im sure, and lets face it David should be happy that after 12 years people love him that much to go to JFK to try to get a glimpse of their hero.
If the kids were harmed then that is another issue, but maybe the kids shouldnt be right with dad whilst hes AT WORK,,,, and going to a new city after a 12 year hiatus is HIS JOB….
also I really have to state that NEW YORK CITY folk are some of the kindest friendliest and most original people in the world, sorry if a few ebay autograph hounds are giving NYC and the USA a bad rap. after seeing shows in Europe I personally LOVE the energy that US crowds give back to the music in a live concert. NOTHING like a show in NYC- NO WHERE
thanks David and co
Dear Fed
JFK -
[...... please know that the offensive behavior at JFK does not represent the spirit of America] sadly, rightly or wrongly, this is an image of America that will stay in the minds of many non-Americans. As always, the minority spoil it!
Regarding celebrities ….. please remember that we live in ‘The Age Of The Celebrity’ many of whom are famous for nothing more than being a celebrity, mostly manufactured by TV and the tabloids. These people court publicity at all times, and need it to maintain the illusion. What is alarming is that many people cannot differentiate between these false idols and the real thing when they see it.
Scenes like this are nothing new though are they? Remember The Beatles in 63? I believe these were ‘fans’ who got carried away in the heat of the moment. What I find amazing is that David should be attracting such attention at this stage in his life/career. I wonder if this would have happened before Live8?
Regards
[Clemens, maybe when you're older and wiser. I hate the internet - forums/blogs are silly. I try to reply as seldom as possible. I'm sick of the internet; it's ugly and boring - like a trucker hat. Everyone wants functionality - which is corporate, tedious, homogenizing and pathetic. I try to have as little to do with the internet as possible - It kills me slowly... If you need me, I'll be enjoying life with my family and friends. If you agree to be my lookout while I paste ten foot tall paintings of people f*cking buildings, we can discuss whatever it is you want to discuss.]
Hmm rather disappointing posts there mate. I think I will read your posts again, but not because I have not understood them in the first read, but to see if your thoughts are indeed founded on solid ground. Like I said before, you have made interesting points, but to me there was a kind of religious ‘blind’ element in the interpretations (something which you accuse others of by the way).
However, you were not willing to discuss this (or other questions, that could somehow deconstruct your view) but started to put credibility of people into question. By stating our thoughts are a product of “brainwashing” and now, you latest joke to say my grasp of English is not sufficient. This is a scientific no go area (going personal for the sake of your argument) and does not help your argumentation one bit. You are starting to look like a cornered animal, going personal and using strong language. Too bad.
I may make the occasional mistake by typing fast, but English is absolutely no barrier to me. Whether scientific texts or commom literature. Hell, I can even discuss this with you in German or Dutch, but lets not go there.
This is Davids blog, and if Ed does think this discussion is inappropriate, then it is ended.
I just hoped on some interesting explanations to a few interesting questions. However, you failed miserably by taking this discussion to the level of personal mudslinging. Something which I will NOT do.
Have a nice day.
Best,
Clemens
[Gosh, don't get me started on the way people hound poor Syd, for goodness sake! Sickening, isn't it?]
Yes it is, I’ve actually had visitors to the city asking me where he lives and although I do know I will not tell them.
Happy to say most locals do leave him alone, but I recall some ‘stalker’ for want of a better word, follwed him around with a camcorder then tried to sell the footage to some grubby tabloid.
It’s utterly sick if you ask me, it’s almost like some people are trying to push the poor guy back over the edge.
Sorry, I’m in a bit of a ranty mood today!
I’d like a pointy stick if there are any spare ones going.
[I'm sending you two, on the basis that you have two arms and two very good points. - Features Editor]
Hopefully the last note on the JFK incident – Why on earth wasn’t there any security to shut them off? Any freakin’ VIP gets an escort in and out of the airport. Either the airport staff took a nap or the US-Tour management. An A*-celeb like David, obviously even in company with his kids and other band memebers kids, shouldn’t ever have to go through that. I know David doesn’t care about all this ‘superstar security hype’ and maybe he categorically denies it. Who knows. But then I don’t see the point in blaming fans, because that’s the way it is with some of them. (a ‘wall album’ to sign – what a nightmare…)
Hi all,
I was not going to post about this, but feel I must.
Mr. Guy Pratt (esq.) – Personally I would have rushed to baggage reclaim and inserted a rather large bass guitar into that fan’s …. you can guess the rest. Hope the nipper isn’t too upset.
As for the David deserves to be mobbed because he is so great and famous, GET A GRIP. If you really want to communicate with David, howabout posting a nice comment to this blog (that’s a big reason why is was set up right??), that way not only does David get to enjoy your input, but the rest of us ‘hardcore’ fans get a bit of a read too. And if you are an e-bay scalper looking to make a few quid on autographs, why not get a scan of an autograph on the net and forge it. That should save you a few quid on bus fare to and from the airport :p.
caption: I’ve got a pocket full of stones and I’m not afraid to use em!
Chris.
I don’t think I will be learning Dutch for the single purpose of replying to one persons questions – I hope you both understand.
I could use an online translation service but I wouldn’t want to offend him with an answer that didn’t express my intended point of view. I certainly wouldn’t attempt to post/answer questions in Dutch if I didn’t fully comprehend the language – I’m sure his response would have been similar to mine. I thank you for your candour – I know that you could have easily deleted my posts and said nothing more of them. I think that your replies to me show that you are indeed a person of substance and not a person who would wittingly engage in silly editing games. I agree that this blog isn’t conducive – or intended – for in depth debate to flow. However, I never intended to express my views for the purpose of debate; they were my views about the sad state of our planet. It was never my intention to cause mindless argument. Unfortunately, others have twisted my words to express a different point of view than intended – for whatever reason. I certainly don’t take your comments as a personal rejection. I can imagine how tough your job is as Features Editor and can understand how you would need to maintain a level of control over the content that is submitted for posting. I think you are doing a great job and commended you for doing so. I thank you for your kind words. Thanks, mate.
[Thank you, I do appreciate that. If this were a forum, I think it would work better. As it stands, the blog is purely to inform and then to stand back and allow people to pass comment. It doesn't allow for much dialogue between people, although we try! The danger is that people misinterpret words and then some time passes before their reply, never mind a follow-up, is published, so everyone gets a little wound up while waiting. For what it's worth, I've found many of the view expressed very interesting and thought-provoking, so I thank you for that. I personally agreed with much of what you've written. Maybe it had very little to do with David, but you provided more than many people have done and given me something to think about if no one else! So cheers, mate. - Features Editor]
Joe,
“It is the life he has chosen so he should expect it. I do not know the details but I do think he should reconsider before taking little ones on tour. It is a bit unrealistic that he should expect to arrive here after all the HYPE and not be approached.”
There’s nothing wrong with approaching. He sure wasn’t mobbed ANYWHERE (except Polly @ the Mermaid) in Europe during that leg of the tour. He even got to chat a bit at some venues with fans. If they’re polite, he might return the gesture. Have you read what happened to Guy’s son ? Disgusting !!!
And since it’s a relatively long period in Northern America he probably wants his family next to him. On the other hand, maybe if more people behave like @ JFK, they’d scrap the rest of the tour, all fly home again and forget about ever touring the USA again. So be warned : Get your pointy Blue sticks out and form a POLITE guard around him !
I know that there are plenty of Americans behaving correctly, but it’s the few lowlifes @ JFK that set the picture. Same for Holland: you know us by tulips, the red district in Amsterdam and the dope. We’re not ALL like that, on the contrary.
Behaviour of the mob @ JFK reminds me of the lyrics of Dogs “And when you loose control, you’ll reap the harvest that you’ve sown”. Or even SSoSFAGTiaCaGwaP “picking the fiery horde that was fallen around ma feet”.
Maybe that’ll be David’s reaction: you’ve harassed me, I won’t come to this town again (I’ll go to bl*&dy Montreal instead). On the other hand: David is much too much an elegant Englishman (in New York ;-) and civilized human being to react that way. He’ll protect his family, but won’t generalize that this mob and his real audience are one and the same.
Must have been a great view @RCMH: David, Rick, David and Graham on one and the same stage. Anybody do the math for me and tell me how many years of music experience was there ?
David, Guy and all others: enjoy the show tonight and the rest of the tour ! I wish I was there.
Piet
Ed, please permit me a long, boring post. I felt the need to do it because of earlier ‘accusations’.
Dear Hysteron,
[We are made from the stars and we will return there.]
And so you ended your first post. It was correct, and so were many of your other views. In the course of the ‘discussion’ that followed you elaborated on a number of themes.
Carbon life forms (and endless possibilities of different carbon (or silicon) constructs), the indifference of space and natural laws towards humans, religion, education and science. All very interesting, and showing a broad spectrum of knowledge.
Looking at humanity from this viewpoint makes us small indeed. So from this wider perspective you look down on us (as busy termites I believe you said) and then you judge. We are doomed, we are pathetic, and have no chance of survival.
Now, here is where our disagreement starts.
Some bloggers, not only me, questioned certain aspects of your views. I have filtered these posts out of the clutter and read them in one single go. It immediately becomes apparent that you ARE having a monologue. You do nothing with other peoples questions. You even start a post by saying: “In response to those that have ‘replied’ to my views”. Notice the word replied? You are stuck in your own framework of thought. You did not reply to others, but you continued your argument with more interesting points (I will not deny that) ignoring questions (or thinking you answered them, a point we shall come back to later. Perhaps there is nothing wrong with MY grasp of English language after all…) and continuously saying that our thoughts are “brainwashed” and “defensive constructs” in the system.
In the course of your posts you continuously talk about “the system”, “ruling class” and “mind control”.
So because they are an important factor in your characterization of humans, and all humans have created (religion, culture, language etc. etc.) I felt you needed to explain them. I asked you:
“But, still, you have got me interested. Tell me about this system. Who are the ruling class? When did they arise? What is their goal? What is your own story in this?”
Again no answers. Not even how you seem to escape your own prison of thought. You use these concepts, and do not explain them. How do you expect me to believe you, if you use concepts (and only these concepts justify your view) you are not willing to explain. You can’t say “this is based on pure logic”. It is not, logic is human thought. Human thought, which is bound by the system as you say. How can you use it for your argument?? It is based on YOUR interpretation of reality. I will conclude this by quoting you: “Our understanding of our environment is limited to what WE can perceive – a very narrow band”
Hysteron you are right. WE, so YOU included, don’t perceive our environment fully. How is it possible that you can pose a framework of thought that is immune to questioning and has a definitive future/characterization for/of humankind?
IT IS IMPOSSIBLE. Here is were science kicks in. Where discussion finds its home. Evaluation of fact, AND NOT PERSONAL attacks in order to discredit views. By the way, what do you know about my age and experience? LOL, you are a prejudiced little fellow aren’t you?
I tried the discussion Hysteron, but you did not listen. Read the posts again. YOU have NOT understood me, or my questions. Or you were not willing to. Now don’t say you did not want discussion, or else you would not have posted or continued posting.
I do not want to end this discussion on such a nasty note. I did enjoy your views. It even made me analyze/criticize text again, I enjoy that.
So thank you mate.
Best,
Clemens
Ps, anybody thinks my grasp of English is insufficient? Hehe. Back to the pointy sticks. Mike, I like the idea of a “special edition pointy stick”! To be used without mercy on guys that hit children!!
Pps, Guy I’m sorry for your kid. That really sucks. I hope you guys will enjoy this second leg nonetheless. Some people have even a more ‘narrow band of perception’ then others…
[I sure as hell don't, mate! I am sorry if what I wrote in defence of you was in any way patronising. So many people write here in a language that is not their first, and I salute them all. After my rather feeble attempts at French, I really mean that! English could be your first language, you are that coherent and precise. So sorry if I seemed at all condescending. It was certainly unintentional. - Features Editor]
[On the subject of JFK, a fan was forcing a copy of The Wall album under David's nose for him to sign, completely oblivious to my 4 year old son who he managed to hit, freaking him out and making him cry. Nice one.]
That just broke my heart..
Hugs (especially for the little one),
Bianca
Hi,
Didn’t want to make a remark of the JFK incident, because this is too obvious a act of disrespect, but after reading Guy’s comment;
Crazy, crazy… this world is crazy.
I’m 42 years young, and I guess that is the avarage age of a David Gilmour fan. Can’t imagine that I’ll travel to an airport and scream for an autogram. Grow up people, have some respect for the private lives of the people you adore.
And of course I would like to have a chat with David, but I’m aware that a lot of people would like that. If he would fulfil all or wishes, he wouldn’t have time to watch his children grow up, he wouldn’t have time to make music, to make fun with Polly, and do we want that? In an interview he said that maybe he had plans to make another album, please don’t make him leave this idea!
I’m more as pleased with his cd, his live performances all over the world, his site with all the “hot” info and this fantastic open blog. You all should!
So people grow up and act with a respect.
For the band, cheer up, not all the people are chasing you, think there are a lot of more people who think what is happened at the JFK is not done at all.
Have fun in the States and return safe.
Nick from a respectful South of the Netherlands.
PS Wauw, David Crosby & Graham Nash on stage! Can we expect more guests? ( Liona B.? ) And some laserbeams aswell. Hope there will be some pictures soon!
Quote
[Hello. Despite understanding the point of your comments i still do not understand what is negative about fans. You are entering all the information about how good Mr.Gilmour album is selling - but you do not want people to show up and demonstrate their affection for Mr.Gilmour - when it is in his interest to be in the spotlight ?What would it be the point otherwise of all the advertising campaign ? I believe you should be more careful in the tones that are being used.]
If this is his idea of showing affection I’d hate to be someone he really loved ‘run for cover Francesco’s a comin’ LOL
On a more serious note I hope Guy’s nipper wasn’t hurt too badly it must have been terrifying for for such a young’un.
I see Mr Brickman has introduced lasers to the shows in the States! it must be difficult to use lasers at the RAH due to the tall and circular nature of the venue! it must mean the lasers will have to point upwards for fear of zapping people in the circle or balcony! otherwise it’s free corrective eye surgery for all ;o) is there nothing David And his band can’t do?
Take it easy and have a good one Mr? or Ms? Fe/Ed (Oh I just realized I’ve been calling you Mr Fe/Ed all along how rude I’ve been if I’m wrong! I do apologize if you are fairer and not a lot hairier)
wow. anything is possible. i can’t believe it. who knows what to expect now. next we’ll be hearing sightings of giant mirror balls and flying pigs. see you sunday.
Francesco:
There is nothing affectionate about the way David, Guy and the others were treated at JFK. If that seems like affection to you, you need to have your relationships examined. I’m not trying to attack you personally, Francesco. It’s just that David, the human being traveling on business with his associates as well as his family, should be treated no differently from other travelers even if he was a Floyd. If we love our celebrities, why do we harass them?
Affection is a loving word. Those who think David got a warm reception at JFK are probably the same people who don’t get the double-meaning of Sting’s song “Every breath you take.”
Stephen…
RE “quiet desperation.”
I believe its actually a quote from Henry David Thoreau, the American writer, philosopher and curmudgeon
Stephen… this is its origin:
It’s a line from the track Time. Which is off of the Dark Side of the Moon album and all four members of Pink Floyd have writing credits…
“Every year is getting shorter never seem to find the time.
Plans that either come to naught or half a page of scribbled lines.
Hanging on in quiet desperation is the English way.
The time is gone, the song is over,
Thought I’d something more to say.”
Curmudgeon… good word :-)
[It gets a double thumbs up from me. - Features Editor]
wow . . . . I was up at 4:15 am today (taking care of a sick baby – 4 legged baby) reading . . . . . I for one heartily appreciate your dedication to the little world you’ve created for us F’ed . . . . GRACIAS !!!! (don’t worry . . . . that’s about all the spanish I know . . )
I’m going to just pass by all the negativity rumbling around . . . and take an opportunity (with your indulgence dear F’ed) to ask our friends in the Netherlands about Marillion (another great band that you should really ‘check out’ F’ed . . ). I believe that Marillion is pretty ‘big’ in the Netherlands . . . is that true??? I became aware of their music about 12 years ago and have had the chance to see them live a couple of times when they did the last 2 US tours. the venues they played were literally just bars (pubs) . . holding only a few hundred people. the band was hanging out with the crowd before the show . . . I was able to be directly in front of the stage for one show (they played “This Strange Engine” almost in it’s entirety I believe) . . . . WHAT a grand experience it was !!!! Steve Hogarth has a spectacular and almost magical voice . . .
so . . . . you fellow ‘blogsters’ in the Netherlands . . . . tell me about one of my favorite (and under-appreciated) bands Marillion please . . .
thanks F’ed . . . . I don’t know where else I’d have an opportunity to get this info . . . !
and if you’re so inclined – and have access to a music download service of some sort . . . check out a few Marillion songs . . . I think you’ll really love them.
suggestions:
“Man of 1,000 Faces”
(really any song from “This Strange Engine” record)
“The Space” (probably my all-time favorite)
“Sympathy” (short and WOW sweet)
thanks again for the indulgence F’ed . . . .
ONE WEEK FROM TODAY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
[I'll definitely look out for them. Thanks. - Features Editor]
dear fed,
by any chance do you know if the stage will once again be graced by crosby and nash? i will be at the show tonight and my number two band is CSNY right behind pink floyd of course. so being able to see half of pink floyd and two members of CSNY would be amazing.
[I couldn't tell you, sorry. - Features Editor]
I still haven’t read too many comments about the AMAZING show that David & co put on last night. Unfortunately I wasn’t there, but to have Crosby and Nash putting their wonderful harmonies on the songs must have been… extraordinary.
And how were the newly installed lasershows?! I’m so happy that I made the effort and booked a plane ticket from Stockholm (where I live) to London to see him there in a couple of weeks.
Good luck on the rest of the tour David!
/Nick
Hello my friends!
What a disappoint about the Jfk incident! I can understand the people who want shake David’s hand or have his sign….but no-one should forget the good education and the important of have care of David, the band and their family. Even because, maybe David and the band can undestand the fans but the children could frightened. What happened to Guy’s son is horrible.
I try to make a proposal. Maybe, this events could be avoid if the artists would organize some meeting with the fans (in a theatre, like a concert) to permit them to make questions or sign albums. But, for the questions, David gave us this internet space. It should be enough! Most artists don’t gave this to his fan! I’d like to meet David! But I see his show and I have this blog: I feel yet lucky!
Have a good day!
L!
P.S. FEd, in the afternoon I hope to start translating the interview published yesterday on an italian magazine. If my translation will be good, could you reward me asking David and Polly if they need a good housewife? My job is starting to bore me! I could help them to bring up their children too! I have some nephews. I’m very good with children! I promise I won’t ask them any signs!!!
[It's a deal. - Features Editor]
I was not going to blog today. I was hoping to hear lots of good stuff from the U.S. about the shows.
However, I am losing the will to live with this one.
When I was young, and granted mass hysteria did exist, but by and large you could go and see a band then, after they unwound, they may have a beer or 2 with you and if you were polite enough they may be good enough to sign something for you. Everything was chilled.
So how then have we got to this stage. Am I missing something.
Pete – Coventry
[Of course I wouldn't mind. "Happy birthday for tomorrow, Linda's Dad... even though I hear you support Manchester United!" Pity. I don't understand cricket or baseball, funnily enough. Both are dreadfully slow and involve much waiting around, so therefore they are similar in my book! - Features Editor
afternoon fet ed . i was just showing dad the above comment to my Dad and he says thanks most kindly for your good wishes . he will still continue to support united though . dad is mancunian . why break the habbit of a life time :-)
guy i hope this is'nt a rude thing to say but give your son a big hug from me . a 4 year old could'nt understand what all those people were doing it must have frightened the sh*t out of him to see all the people there never mind to get a wallop like that . it is not freaking on to frighten a child like that .
i must say jane you made a bloody good post . i agree with you 100%
well that it for now . i want to get out get my work done and go for a walk . we are going out tonight to celebrate dads birthday in style :-)
see ya fet ed !
peace
Linda
[We hope that you and your family have a good night, mate. - Features Editor]
Guy, sorry to hear about your son. I’ve got a four year old daughter, and if anything like that happened to me my own NYC Dark Side would come out to defend her!!! Somebody would be eating that piece of vinyl *rse first…
–
Fedmeister, I’m not disappointed for not getting in. I’m actually more disappointed that I missed out on a few more beers at Heartland with my blogger mates! Yes, even though Crosby and Nash were there (I knew it!!! I heard them doing Find the Cost of Freedom during sound check!!!)
By the way, I have a scanned jpeg file of the NY Post article which I found on the subway (train) on the way home last night. Still want it? If you do, let me know how?
(Funny story about me in London trying to cross the street at Elephant & Castle but all I saw were “subway” signs….but that’s for another time…)
–
My turn tonight! Maybe Crosby and Nash will be there again? If not, maybe Roger Waters will drive in from his home on the Hamptons, Long Island? Someone I met last night from New Jersey works at the Metropolitan Opera House and has seen Mr. Waters there frequently over the last few weeks (probably pushing a Ca’Ira performance).
–
Taking my daughter to school now, I’ll post yesterday’s pictures when I get back in an hour or so. Click my name…..
–
I took the day off today and will hang out downtown all afteroon just taking it all in (I won’t be stalking, ‘onest…) Now, how do I get my javelin sized Pillock Silencer on the subway….?
[You were so close last night, mate. I'd have been gutted and I was disappointed for you when I heard that you'd missed out. Tonight will be brilliant, you'll see. Great pictures on your blog, by the way. I enjoy that. - Features Editor]
Wow! I had such a great time at the show last night I just had to get on this blog and babble about it.
Having David Crosby and Graham Nash singing with David on On and Island, The Blue and Shine On was such a treat – and David singing Find the Cost of Freedom with them as one of the encores was an extra treat.
Performances of all of the songs were top notch. Everyone in the audience sang along on the “big hits” which were excellent as expected. But the real highlights for me were A Pocketful of Stones, Fat Old Sun, Echoes and High Hopes. I actually cried on High Hopes when David switched back to the acoustic guitar after the pedal steel solo at the end of the song. It was just so beautiful and moving the way they played the song down to that quiet ending.
The band was great – as expected. But I have to give special mention to Steve – who I have not seen work before. His playing really made a difference on the ending of Fat Old Sun and on Echoes.
David, Polly, band and crew: Thank you for an evening of great entertainment. Enjoy the rest of your tour. Come back and visit us anytime!
Mike from Connecticut
To Angelo, Shelly, Tim & other RCMH attendees,
I couldn’t get out of work to meet you guys yesterday but I will be there today. I hope 4:45 is still a good time.
Fed, I am so psyched for the show tonight. I am as excited as I was in 1980 for the wall shows. I may be 45 but feeling 19 again today! Less hair but a huge smile!!!
Breathe, Time,Echoes, WYWH, Comfort Numb,Money & of course the entire On An Island! YEAH!
I am so sorry to hear about the airport debacle. David, look into Bo Diedel and the Mongo Bros as security. They will keep you guys safe.
Cheers and see you tonight!
Stephen,
NY, USA
What is it about people that feel that, since they are a “fan” of someone, they DESERVE something?
David Gilmour is a human being, and as such deserves his life, just like the rest of us.
Getting an autograph from him at say, a press conference or some other type of venue where he is prepared and WILLING to do so is one thing, but to practically attack him at the AIRPORT is ludicris. Get a life, people.
I’m utterly disgusted.
Being excited is no excuse. Neither is David’s status. There’s no one I’d be more elated to meet, but I wouldn’t conduct myself in such a shameful, atrocious manner. Once again it’s a reflection of the sense of entitlement some people have. Nothing excuses what happened at JFK. Little children getting hurt, that’s appalling. Every one of those people should be very, very ashamed. How can you be satisfied with an autograph obtained in that manner?
We’re ‘the fans’, not individuals, and certainly not in any way special. This incident will no doubt taint the way everyone involved feels about and interacts with us all. It’s embarrassing as much as anything else.
Now just a few quick comments on the show itself:
I was there at the 4/4/06 show, and what a treat. What a pleasure to see Graham nash and David Crosby join Dave for harmonies on several songs, and the acapella “Find The Cost Of Freedom” was beautiful indeed.
But “Echoes” was truly the nights shining moment, both musically and of course, the actual LIGHT show.
I may write a longer review later, but I personally want to thank Dave for an excellent show.
I also want to thank the crowd at Radio City, for the most part I thought it was a well behaved crowd, who sat quietly during the music and then cheered and applauded at the end, even during the reletively new material that not ALL were familiar with yet. No Boo’s or “Play MONEY!” idiots, at least none that I heard…a big FU to the idiot behind me talking on his cell phone though…dude, hang the hell up and watch the SHOW, moron!
I KNEW Crosby & Nash would show up somewhere on the North America tour! Hope like hell they’ll show up in Toronto…although I’m not counting on it.
Guy, I’m SO sorry for the rude dude scaring the hell out of your son…when you get a certain amount of people together the math just works that there will always be a certain number of idiots, no matter where in the world you go. My apologies…
Wow. I don’t know what to say except that last night was probably the greatest musical event of my life. Still need time to absorb it all and also to read all the other posts. So more later.
Hello to everybody including the dear F.Ed. I’ve missed being here the last couple of days…it made me feel disconnected somehow. Oh! Deborah says hey. She gets to see David tonight. I envy her.
Angelo & Co: I’m sorry I missed you all!
Becky
PS–I’m so sorry that fans acted badly. They mess it up for everyone, don’t they?
How soon, do you reckon, will it be until those ‘fans’ that were so demanding of DG’s autograph put up their ‘treasured’ possession on ebay?
[I don't know if he does like it, Brad. I believe he likes cricket, which is similar. - Features Editor]
Sorry all our American friends out there but cricket is similar to baseball in the same way that chess is similar to checkers!
Oh and football is played with a round ball as well.
(only joking friends, we love you really even if you are rude at airports. In fact in my experience the rudest people at airports are the people who work at Heathrow but that’s another story)
Anyone have the song list for the New York show last night? I am interested because I am seeing the Toronto show next week and I expect the set will be the same.
Anyone????
[It's already on the page, Ted. But, as I'm feeling unusually nice this afternoon... First half: Castellorizon, This Heaven, Smile, Red Sky At Night, Take A Breath, Then I Close My Eyes, On An Island, The Blue, Pocketful Of Stones, Where We Start. Second half: Shine On You Crazy Diamond, Wearing The Inside Out, Dominos, Fat Old Sun, Breathe/Time/Breathe (Reprise), High Hopes, Echoes. Encores: Wish You Were Here, Find The Cost Of Freedom (a Crosby, Stills & Nash song), Comfortably Numb. - Features Editor]
JFK – It’s a shame that it happened but I think for someone in David’s position would be naive to think it would never happen.
[David hasn't passed comment on the incident. I'm sure a crowd was expected. It just would have been nice if the crowd could have shown some composure around small children, that's all. - Features Editor]
Can we now bring to a close all the coments reagrding the JFK incident. Lets here more from peole who were at the show please.
Waiting for May
Wow What A second set!
Crosby / Gilmour / Nash Kewl
The sound man was sleeping at the top of the first set. The bass was blasting..Dave sounded over processed
It did get better as the set went along. Dave’s Sax was painful..Bad Mix
They got it all straight for the second set.
Im going again tomorrow
“……Well my watch says two minutes after!” drawled the impatient long island housewife.
“I want my $5 maguerita!”
Ah, the pleasures of standing “In Line” all present and correct the vulgarities of a summer stadium show at the wholly inappropriate Radio City.
Inside indeed the frozen 5 “Island Breeze” margaritas were selling like the proverbial hot cakes.
Our seats in the second row of the second mezzanine offered an excellent view of the semi distant stage.
A little after 8pm, the house lights went out and plumes of dry ice were pumped from below and above the stage, subtle white lighting completed the effect of a broiling eeire wall of fog as the starins of “On an Island’s” openng sound collage “Castellorizon” rang out.
The fog slowly stilled and Gilmour himself appeared centre stage, picked up his guitar and began to play the openng plaintive solo.
The band slowly appeared behind him. Jon Carin on Keyboards, Guy Pratt on Bass, Steve DiStanislao on the drums. Pink Floyd’s Richard Wright on keyboards and Phil Manzanera on second Guitar.
Next DiStanislao lead the band into the Steely Danesque upright bass swagger of “This Heaven”
A quick fumble from David next whilst attemping to fix a strap on his accoustic and an ecstatically recieved “Its nice to be in New York” and the simple accoustic slide guitar driven love song “Smile” swept over the sold out crowd like a warm sonic bath.
Gilmour displayed his lung power on the Saxaphone led instrumental “Red Sky at Night”
The only real “Rocker” from “On an Island” was next.
“Take a Breath” accompanied by dramtic stobesque lighting and Guy’s prominet Bass.
David started to play what looked like a childs guitar (A turkish instrument; A Cumbus”) for another instrumental “Then I Close My Eyes” Switching to a Gretch Duojet for the remainder of the song.
David paused next to intoduce two special guests. David Crosby and Graham Nash’s entrance sent the overloud crowds response through the roof as their perfect harmonies meshed seemlessly with Gilmour’s and Wright’s throughout “On an Island” and “The Blue”
Nash and Crosby had already left the stage before David could thank them, he raised his hands in mock disbelief before stating “Pretty good those guys!”
House effectivley brought down David let us down gently with the first set’s final two tracks “A Pocket ful Of Stones” and “Where We Start”
Bathroom, or in actual fact in true art deco fashion “Mens Lounge” break next.
Set two was what most of the over zealous crowd had come for ninety minutes of David’s favourite Pink Floyd Tracks.
Opening simply with a white rotating spotlight and armed with only his guitar and a delay pedal. Gilmour wrenched out the emotive opening to “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” in a fresh arrangement of the 1975 classic.
The band proper and Crosby and Nash joined in for the roof raising chorus.
Veteran Floyd saxophonist reprised his twin sax solo in the outro, switching from barritone to sopprano saxophone in a quick fluid motion.
Guy Pratt’s Bass effect enhanced bass introduced “Wearing the Inside Out” sung by Wright. A tribute to Syd Barrett followed in “Dominoes”
Gilmour stuck to his accoustic for the pastoral “Fat Old Sun” an extended accapella refrain of “Sing to me” affording Gilmour time to strap on his Stratocaster for the closing powerful electric solo.
The fimiliar heartbeat intro ushered in a mini suite from “Dark Side of The Moon”
“Breathe” and the classic “Time:Breathe Reprise” accompnied by close to six thousand backing vocalists and several confused dancing headbangers!
“High Hopes” was next featuring a classical guitar outro.
The following number was for most people worth the price of admission alone. 1971′s “Echoes” in a full twenty minute version complete with eeire “Segull” effects from David. Lighting director Mark Brickman used all his bag of tricks to take the audience on a psychadelic journey featuring laser’s, smoke and strobe effects.
At the close of the track the stage still lit the audience response was overwhelming.
David and company duly obliged the standing ovation by returning to the stage Nash and Crosby in tow for the bittersweet ‘Wish You Were Here”
David Stated that he wanted to try “One of thiers” next as he accompanied them for an accapella reading of “Find the cost of Freedom”
Finally David stated “You’ll know this one” as the epic “Comfortably Numb” featuring Richard Wright subbing for Roger Water’s “Doctor” vocals washed over the audotorium. The band in darkness and David backlit for what is to my mind the epoch of guitar solos.
The house lights up the band took a bow and bid us goodnight.
An awe inspiring performance.
Cheers
Steve
Hello Sir David Gilmour, Sylvie (montreal) and all other bloggers….
As you can see ” *** MONTREAL *** ” is now an “A” MARKET with venue like U2, Bon Jovi, Madonna, Formula 1 Grand Prix, Jazz Festival, Just for Laugh Festival and alsoooooooooo the NHL HOCKEY SERIESsssss “*** SORRY TORONTO BUT YOUR MAPLE LEAFS ARE DEAD SINCE A WHILE….mdrrrrrr yeahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!….David i guess your TOUR MANAGER made a mistake i believed that he booked MONTREAL in your ON AN ISLAND TOUR ITINERARY but the guys check the wrong box on the contract isn’t?….Well well well
Sylvie thanks for the cue i am set for both shows already! Hope you’re too…
GO HABS GO….Hey David i invite you to a REAL NHL MONTREAL CANADIENS HOCKEY GAME anytime (we will discuss your next venue together hey hey!)
Tchiao!
CLAUDE
MONTREAL
Carlos Z. wrote
“Hey Fed – Do you think you can put in a word for me with Jon Carin about playing with him in Roger’s band this summer?”
Someone must have heard you, Carlos, because he is! I believe Roger has also asked the *other* keyboardist to join him for the Magny-Cours show. That would be awesome! (Oops. I mean – that would be spiffy!) It really would be great to see Richard perform with Roger again.
For those of you who are waiting with tickets for the show, and who have enjoyed, as I have, the pleasure of consuming the thoughts and ideas of this page in anticipation of hearing David Gilmour live, let me say this: THE SHOW IS INCREDIBLE. I was at Radio City last night. Mr. Gilmour, thank you, thank you, thank you. A couple key points: Richard Wrights’s voice is amazing, as is his keyboard playing. Fat Old Sun was my favorite of the night–although David’s guitar on The Blue was out of this world. This was incredible.
Regarding the business at the airport, what a disgusting way to behave. But after last night’s show I’m not surprised. The New York crowd was generally ill mannered. Many arrived late, people were getting up to get more beer during moments when, if they’d been paying attention, they’d have been witness to one of the best rock shows of all time.
There’s a line in an interview with David from Live at Pompei where he speaks of knowing “bread lines and less.” That line has always resonated with me. I worked hard for the money for my ticket, and was rewarded with one of the best nights of music that I have ever seen and heard in my life. I could not have imagined a better concert. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
First off, THANK YOU DAVID for the amazing show in NY! Best show I’ve ever been to. My only disapointment was no Wot’s..Uh the Deal. I was really looking forward to hearing that live.
Secondly, I’d like to apologize on behalf of all the NY people who behaved themselves last night, for the awful reception David and the band were subjected to on their arrival at JFK Airport. I just read about the enslaught of disrespectful “fans” that basicly attacked them as they arrived. Please don’t form your opinions of NY by them. They are the minority.
Again, thank you, thank you, thank you!
Since when is FeD the divine authority on fan behavior and musical appreciation?
I would never approach Gilmour or Waters if I saw them because I know how private they are and they probably get really annoyed with all the fans. Waters less so recently. I would probably be too nervous anyway. I actually resent Gilmour a bit for being so reclusive and then going on tour and (and playing mostly the same old Floyd songs), apparently, being impatient with fans.
But, with a legacy like his, I mean what do you expect? There are fans out there and they put him wher he is, a multimillionaire. Why does he bring his whole family on tour? Why don’t they take separate flights? Don’t they expect some fans?
I don’t know what happened at JFK, it was probably over the top and disrespectful. Some fans are dumb. But people are excited about this tour, give the fans a break.
Regarding JFK, maybe Roger had a point over the scrambling crowds….
Anyway, I am sure the camp were shakin’ but not stirred and superb performances will follow. Please remember David, not long before you come back to our ‘Island’, counting the minutes…..Manchester here we come!!!
If you haven’t figured it out by now, the JFK “incident” was orchestrated by Claude as revenge for not playing Montreal. Notify Homeland Security.
Hi,
After drive-ing for 5 hours from my home in NH, through all of Vermont, Mass, Ct, and into Ny. I happen-ed to arrive quite early for the show.
I noticed by the Mucic Hall’s stage door a group of fans looked like they knew someone was going to be coming out so I linger-ed there a bit.
David, Polly and a child came out and David was surrounded by fans. As much as I may have wanted to greet David Gimour, I was amazed at how they put copies of OAI inches from his face hope-ing to be the one to get the autograph. So, I left them space and just admired David’s ability to handle the situation well. I wasn’t even aware last night that they had already had these types of reactions in Ny already.
Anyway, there was another person obviosly well involved with the production so I started a converastion with him and it turned out to be Mark Brickman who was very polite and friendly and surprized when I mentioned people have been review-ing the light show along with the concert.
The light show last night was the most elegant light show I’ve seen (and I’ve been to 5 PF shows and 2 RW shows in the past for example.) It even incorperated the Radio City Hall itself into the show. It served well to highlight the amazingly beautifull reditions of the songs and I’m still awestruck.
I must say I’ve never heard Echoes that loudly before and the show was easily the best concert I’ve even been too.
Thanks,
Brian
Well, it must have been a fantastic show in NY!!!
With Crosby & Nash and increased light and laser show.
I am not complaying that we did not have those lights in Italy. I am just happy David is increasing his show more and more.
Looking forward the DVD release and new tour dates…(if his family is happy with that)
- After all, Venice is a nice venue to stay, and not too crowdy, isn’t it? :-)
Just some comments on last night’s show – wonderful. It was great to see David Gilmour in a theater setting as oppossed to a stadium. The first set was amazing, performing his new album “On an Island” , and we were surprised with a special guest appearance by David Crosby and Graham Nash on “On an Island” and The Blue. “Take a Breath” was very cool
An intermission followed, including a horrifying trip to the mens bathroom, bobbing and weaving through all sorts of horrid people – frat boys, men urinating in sinks and in one instance, himself.
The second set was Flyodian to the max, with an ubelievable version of “Echoes”.
ask dave to consider cymbaline. how about a real old song mixed in with the new, which is fluid. i am stuck in the woods of the far north reaches of california and have no way of getting to a show, how about streaming the show? any show live off this website?? I would be more than willing to help, i help run a streaming company…
I doubt there will be such a regrettable scene when they arrive at the Toronto airport. (Fellow Canadians: back me up here…) We tend to be too easy-going to participate in a “mob” mentality. Sure, we might steal the odd glance and elbow the person next to us and whisper: “Look…it’s HIM!”. But, I really think that while he’s in Canada, David’s (and his family’s) personal space will remain intact.
Hello, can’t speak english to-day, too hard when it’s about a discussion.
J’ai appris l’accueil “musclé” de David et sa famille à l’aéroport JFK, et bien sûr je suis indignée par la bêtise humaine et l’égoïsme de certains, mais surtout j’ai du mal à comprendre la différence de comportement des gens en fonction de leur culture ou de leur implantation géographique:
Je me rappelle le 15/03 àux environs de 16h, on est arrivé (de province) près du Grand Rex pour repérer les lieux que l’on ne connaissait pas et… hasard et miracle, j’ai vu arriver David (en taxi), il est descendu, a tranquillement traversé le trottoir, il y avait des fans, bien sûr, qui l’attendaient, mais personne ne l’a importuné, les gens se sont écartés pour le laisser passer, aucun problème, il souriait, a serré quelques mains, et est entré au Grand Rex; ah, bien sûr, l’album on an island que j’avais emmené (?) n’a pas été signé, je n’ai même pas pensé à lui tendre ! J’étais simplement heureuse et fière de l’avoir vu.
Donc aucun problème, comme ,je pense, partout dans notre “vieille Europe” où on respecte encore la vie privée, même des plus grands, ce qui n’empêche pas une grande affection !
Voilà, c’est tout.
Celà dit, ceci est valable pour tout le monde et les messages virulents des fans sur ce blog contre “ces damnés américains” manquent eux auusi de respect et de tolérance.
In conclusion, David and his family are human and deserve respect, people at JFK were human, with their qualities and their faults.
Respect and tolerance please, for all, who said “we don’t need no education “? he was wrong, we all need more education !!!
sorry dear Fed, maybe I was too long and boring !
et vive La Musique ! (…de David bien sûr)
et vive you, Fed !, don’t forget to sleep sometimes…
Michèle.
[Il n'était pas trop long ou fastidieux, mon ami. Il était parfait. Merci. - Features Editor]
FYI:
I saw a commercial this morning during the NBC Today Show for the OAI album.
I also put yesterday’s pictures up to see. Click my name…
…and for anyone hanging out this afternoon before the show, I’ll be under the telestrater across from RCMH at 4:45 and at Heartland Brewery by the bar after 5pm.
does anyone know what time DG takes the stage?
Good morning, F.Ed.
Francesco wrote “Despite understanding the point of your comments i still do not understand what is negative about fans.”
I personally don’t think anyone is saying negative things about fans in general. Fans are what make the business go around, and artists of all kinds I think feel a connection of some kind with their fan base. Various musicians have described the magic and wonder of connecting with their audience at a live show, etc.
What’s being discussed is how a few selfish, rude, obnoxious people take advantage of a situation and act like complete jerks. Like I have said before, there are a few extremists in every group, and they tend to get the most attention.
The unfortunate thing is that people behaving in this way think they are not doing anything wrong. it’s evident by some posts on here that people think David should expect people to act like that, and he should just shut up and take it. He’s a “celebrity”. He’s a “God” a “Legend”, you name it. Therefore, people have the “right” to behave that way and impose themselves on David and his family. David has no right to bring his family along, he should know better. This is the mentality and behavior of a few people that cause irreparable damage in a fan- artist relationship.
I am waiting to see someone post that it’s Guy’s fault his 4 year old got hurt, because the child should not have been there to begin with. As a father of young kids myself, I can imagine that Guy was more than a little upset. There is absolutely NO excuse for people who do that. David and the others have EVERY right to bring their families along. It is a great thing for them to include their families, to share with them their experiences and have that time together.
On a ligher note, with Crosby and Nash there, that would have been a great show to see and hear. I wonder what it would sound like if they sang on Echoes or Comfortably Numb? (I am not trying to suggest or request anything- I won’t be there to hear it anyways. It’s just a thought.) It sounds like people had a blast that were there.
Weird.. Again, as I write, a song comes on the radio, this time Learning to Fly.
Good day, all, enjoy the shows, wish I could be there.
mike
[Well said, mate. Just a few rotten apples and all that. - Features Editor]
[new yorkers have passion unlike any other folks. also NYC has some of the largest amount of passionate Floyd fans - and they are not shy about expressing their love. no harm was meant Im sure]
Rudders – if you ever become a blog celebrity, as you are slowly becoming, then dont go to NYC. They might whip your keks off and express their love to you.
Pete – Coventry
I started lisinig to your mosic wen I was about 6 years old. my dad hase evry CD of yers. I am doing a proget on your pink floyd aldums
I agree with Bleeding Heart Artist.
Sorry UK, but there is nothing like New York City.
Rock On!
Hope he does not get that kind of welcome in Canada.can’t wait to see him on the 11th in toronto. comming from Montreal.Any way to get some back stage pass to offer to my wife, Great fan indeed!
Respectfully,Hartley
[Sorry, mate. - Features Editor]
Hello my friends!
This is the first part of the interview published by an italian magazine.
In this part the journalist talk. In the second there are questions and answers. I hope to translate it soon! I’m very sorry if my english is not good…even because I should work and I had not time to look every word up in the dictionary……I hope you can understand? Is there some italian who can translate the second part better?
Have a great evening!
L!
He’s got blue eyes, very light and peaceful; he’s got fair paunch; a relaxed face, not one wrinkled. The scars are somewhre else: sometimes, when you listen his music now, they look like they were healed. Sometimes, because David Gilmour have risked a lot in his life and when you live at the velocity of sound, not burn is impossible. And the scars never will heald completely.
However, today David Gilmour is married with Polly Samson (they look like the engaged couple of Paynet), who writes the lyrics of his song; 8 children (4 daughter and 4 son, the elder is about 30 years old, the younger 4), he is rich and live in a beautiful contry house.
(…some information…but I didn’t write because we know he has a studio/boat and 100 guitars,,,so, I didn’t translate this sentence. NDR)
Today David Gilmour is very far from the boys with long hair, velvet jacket and tight trousers that in ‘70s climbed the Olympus with a different rock than the others. People called it psychedelic and for a lot of persone it means Lsd. They sung “Tears, the life that was ours grows sharper and stronger away and beyond short wheeling – fresh spring, gripped with blanched bones – moaned – magnesium, proverbs and sobs”.
Today Gilmour sold one of his house and gave the money to “Crisis”. He did the same after the Live 8, making donations to the Live 8 organizations. (…)
Today is another man, who sing “Life is much more than money buys when I see the faith in my children’s eyes”. But you can still recognize his guitar. What a pleasure his solo.
“The intelligence of a musician is in his hands”, said someone. David Gilmour’s hands are ingenious.
[Thank you for that, Lucia. Very kind of you to translate for us. - Features Editor]
Hi all,
Let’s hear some more reviews of last night’s show! It must have been really exciting!
What paraphernalia was on sale? Anything different on how the band played some numbers?
Thx!
Nick from Toronto
RE Quiet Desperation…
Stephen… this is its origin:
It’s a line from the track Time. Which is off of the Dark Side of the Moon album and all four members of Pink Floyd have writing credits…
Rudders-
I might be misunderstanding your point, but I would categorize the phrase’s origin as coming from Thoreau, I think “Walden Pond,” though I’m not sure about this last point and am too lazy (and still glowing from last night’s concert!) to look it up on the internet.
Roger had one of his many, many brilliant moments when he nicked (an English term for borrowing, no?) the line for “Time.”
RE Speaking of Roger and Nick on tour, a friend just emailed me the following blurb from a Toronto Sun interview:
“Hey, we’ve played Dark Side Of The Moon without Roger,” said Gilmour, referring to the years when Gilmour carried on with Pink Floyd after Waters left the group…”Roger wrote all the words and a fair bit of the music on Dark Side Of The Moon. So there’s absolutely no reason at all why he shouldn’t go and play it. In fact, he asked recently if we would let him use the original film we used with the show, and we said, ‘Fine, go ahead.’ “
I’m very happy reading that yesterday’s show was so good ad the show I saw in Rome. And I can remember that night throught your words. It is very neautiful. I loved Fat old sun, because the palyed it in a way I never listened. And it was wounderful!
ciao
L!
Amazing show. Just amazing. I’ve never been in such a happy crowd. Acoustics were fantastic, and the ushers were treated to a calm night.
Loved the applause for Mr. Wright, Mr. Crosby, and Mr. Nash…such a fine thing to be a part of.
Lost my keys there, can you believe someone turned them in? I picked them up at 7:45 this morning at Radio City’s stage entrance. Whew.
I’m just glad Rog wasn’t there. We definately would’ve gotten a verbal lashing from him last night.
Steve: Thanks for the play by play of last nights show! Glad to hear there’s a great light show along with the music!
Tom wrote:
“No Boo’s or “Play MONEY!” idiots, at least none that I heard…a big FU to the idiot behind me talking on his cell phone though…dude, hang the hell up and watch the SHOW, moron!”
Tom-
There was a guy, I think during High Hopes, who yelled out: “Dave! Rock and Roll!” Many in the crowd laughed.
And yeah, what is it with those people talking on their cell phones in the middle of a show? Also 2 guys were gabbing behind me during Dominoes and High Hopes. My brother and I turned around and asked them to keep it down. They’re succinct response ended with something like: “Dude, it’s a concert…” I thought for a moment of replying: “PRECISELY my point, you…person, you.” But of course listening to the music was my priority. And unfortunately, he’s correct: You can’t have that many people in a place and not expect a little irritation.
And then there was that bathroom scene mentioned earlier…
But regardless, none of this really detracts from the great show. And if anything, those silly moments add a little texture.
I just wanted to compliment David on an (yet another) excellent record. I wish he were coming closer, but I understand that begging won’t help.
Believe me, it’s not a matter of pride. If begging worked, I’d do it.
Also, please accept this fan’s apology for the behavior of some of my fellow Americans. Most of us are respectful of one another’s privacy. And then there are people like me who would also be too petrified to approach famous folks anyway.
Just one question, though. I’ve been seeing conflicting dates for the re-release of David’s first two albums. Are they still being re-released and if so, when?
Thanks and best wishes for an excellent but “uneventful” remainder of the tour,
Robert in New Orleans
[I don't have a date for their release, Robert, and the dates you'll see at certain online retailers are wrong. As soon as an official date is announced, we'll let you know. - Features Editor]
Hey All:
I’m on my way to catch a train out of NY, but wanted give a shout out to all our blog friends that we met up with last night. Angelo, thanks again for getting us together and sorry you didn’t get a ticket. We’ll be in contact when we get back home. Got something special for ya!
The show was incredible…The lasers added were a special treat and Crosby and Nash’s appeareance nearly brought the house down!
I’ll write a full review of our expereience as soon as I get back home…All you going tonight, enjoy the show!!!!
Shelley
I have just read a review quote “My favourite though was the trading of lyrics between Gilmour & Wright during Money”. This comment has also been put on other websites. What concert was this person at?
This is not the first time that somebody has said that David sang a certain song when he didn’t. What’s the matter with people?
LS
[They probably mean 'Echoes' or they're just trying to cause trouble, Lesley. - Features Editor]
I had a perfect seat. Second row, second mezzanine. I was lined right up with the lights in set 2.
The highlights from the first set were Take a Breath (the only “rocker” on the new disc), On an Island and an instrumental where Gilmour plays sax (name escapes me, I’m still digesting the new album). Band introductions took place after Dick Parry left the stage, ending with Richard Wright (longest ovation, partly standing, including me) and then the introduction of the two special vocalists for On an Island and The Blue. Also the lights at the end of the set were nice – a yellow wave on the upper left and a criss cross of light green on the lower right.
The intermission was just 16 minutes (9:06 to 9:22). Being used to longer intermissions at jamband concerts, during which countries have been overthrown, this was a nice treat.
Shine On started off just a bit rough as David got his bearings. Yes, it’s only four notes, but he doesn’t play them exactly as recorded so don’t expect that. By Part II-III of Shine On they were cruising nicely, Graham and David C. came back to lend vocal assistance, and when Dick came back for the sax, and he was jamming with David and Rick (they formed a visual triangle), well, let’s just say it was easy to think you were hearing another band. I even made a triangle with my hands to assist with my delusion!
Rick’s turn on vocals came next with Wearing the Inside Out. When singing lead last night he frequently adjusted the height of his mike, but Jon covered keys for him while he did (a nice pair, those two). The Barrett song was a nice treat with David on acoustic guitar, and then FAT OLD SUN (!). Beautifully sung, lifted me right up.
Then the goosebumps started when they went into Breathe. As with Shine On, the opening notes are not a perfect re-creation, David adds some flourishes on the pedal steel. Once he and Rick started singing, I drifted right away with a BIG smile. Time was fine. Very fine. Lots of lights. Green. Nice to have Rick there to sing his parts, which happen to be my favorite Floyd lyrics, ever. [A note on Rick's voice - it's not as sweet as it used to be, more phrasing now, but it works.] Breathe reprise brought it all home. Then High Hopes. Then silence.
Ping.
???
Ping.
???!!!
PING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It’s amazing when you hear one of your favorite songs played live for the first time, especially when a) it’s been a favorite for many years, b) you never expected to hear it and c) you have Rick and Dave to sing it!!!!!!
During this 15-16 minutes of aural magic, Brickman let loose with an extravaganza of lights, including a greenish yellowish wheelspoke that stretched RIGHT UP TO MY SEAT. I kid you not. The people in front of me had left to get a beer (?) and I literally could have gotten up and walked on the lights right down to the stage, if I had been so inclined and the laws of physics were temporarily suspended.
Dave’s guitar work in the middle section was nasty and raw and beautiful and wonderful.
I was spent at this point, big grin on my face, no worries.
Encores were two I expected and one big surprise. Crosby, Gilmour and Nash? Hey – why not! On Comfortably Numb, Rick sang Roger’s part, which thus gave it multiple levels of wonderful irony.
Show wrapped at 10:52. A wonderful night of music.
Thank you very much David, Rick, Dick, Jon, Guy, Phil, Steve, David C. and Graham — and you too Marc!
And regarding the crowd – the people in my area were all respectful and there for the music, and realized they were treated to something very special.
Everyone, it is SNOWING in new york right now (at least on 32nd and 7th). None of it will stick, of course, but if you ask me, it’s a lovely scene, and provides a nice atmosphere for the music though of us lucky enough to have tickets for tonight’s show will see!
I am at my desk (barely) working, listening to music, watching the snow fall and allowing my excitement to build.
steve steele, great show review, and thanks for including the approximate start time of the show.
I must say, last night’s show was phenominal!
Welcome to America David! Sorry about the over zealous fans at JFK, you should know that during your show the New Yorkers acted with a high level of civility and friendship towards one another.
They also displayed tremendous love for the musicians during the show. Thank you for visiting our Island, and we hope you come back again & again.
BTW, to the rest of my countrymen – please stop generalizing about New Yorkers, you don’t even know if the crowd at JFK were all NYers or some over anxious fans from other places (I talked to several people who flew into town for the show). We do have some bad apples in the bunch, but please stop refering to us all in general terms.
Thank you & Shine On!!
First: I saw the show last night and it was amazing. I wasn’t expecting Wright to be there, and that was a real treat. The crowd erupted when he was introduced. Crosby and Nash was really cool, and of course Gilmour was his incredible self. The new stuff was great and the Floyd songs were fantastic What a great show!
Second: Stop your whining about New Yorkers. Oh my, people got up to get beers at a show? How rude! How dare people try to have a good time at a show! Autograph hounds harrassed David to sign stuff they could turn around and sell on E-Bay?! How shocking! What is this world coming to?
We New Yorkers may be opinionated or whatever, but please, don’t insult us by accusing us of freaking out over celebs. We see them everyday. We don’t care. That is why so many live here. In general, if there’s a scene over celebs, it’s either kids, tourists or pros. So, to borrow the stereotype too many of you too easily believe, you can take your crying and stuff it.
cheers
Pete
On the night of April 4th, you can’t imagine, or maybe someone could, that if I died tomorrow, the image of David playing guitar with the lazer right above his head is forever all I need to know I’ve been in heaven. Life is a bowl of fruit and David is sure the juice of life. Yum, yum and WOW to hear David and this band play. Seeing his old band mate and founder of Pink Floyd was tremendous! The other guest stars were great, but let’s face it, David is why we were there. He broght back the fantasy of Floyd with his melodic playing.Loved it, loved it, loved it!! “On an Island” is a masterpiece and will go down in history as such. Thank you David for sharing your magic with me. I not only heard you play, I felt you in my heart!
Fedmeister,
Thanks for the condolences. I really appreciate that. I’m ready for tonight with my new David Gilmour tour shirt on and Pillock Silencers in hand! Glad you liked the pictures…did you see the black and white of David I put up today? I thought you’d might like that one, too…
;-)
–
Stephen,
I’ll see you later, dude. I might hand around the side entrance on 51st street to hear another sound check again in case you get there early.
–
Becky,
Sorry I missed you, too! :-(
Hopefully, the’ll be a next time!!!
–
Steve, Great Review! I’m pumped even more!!!!
…now, time to go off into Gilmour-land. I’ll be geeked-out again with my internet cell phone as I take it all in…
[The one of him sticking his tongue out? That's a good one. - Features Editor]
maybe I missed in this long dialogue, but can someone advise what time the first note was played last nite, i’ll be rushing to RCMH as fast as I can tonite!
thnks!