Live Review and Photos by: Jacob Gaitan
Over 100,000 screaming fans attended Angel stadium as U2 performed two shows in Orange County. Originally scheduled for June of last year, the four-piece at returned to southern California as promised. The field was completely transformed to accommodate the massive four-legged support rig nicknamed “the claw”. As the lights dimmed and Space Oddity by David Bowie played over the enormous speakers, they appeared on stage causing the stadium to rattle from the build up excitement in the air.
The set list began with “Even Better Than The Real Thing” resulting in colossal screams and participations that lasted throughout the night. Lead singer Bono radiated immense energy with his powerful tones and animated energy. The Edge had no issues shredding along to his electric axe across the giant stage. His calm demeanor and poised attitude reflected confidence with a cool twist as he glanced across thousands of eyes. Silver Fox Adam Clayton wore a plastered smile and often leaned on The Edge to face off with his bass. Drummer Larry Mullen showed no signs of age as he added the intoxicating beats during each song. Their history surpasses three decades and their live shows still manage to incorporate new experiences for new fans and old.
Between songs, Bono entertained the audience by stating what their careers would be had they ventured away from music. Larry would be a Highway Patrol Officer stated Bono as he leaned on the drums. The Edge would be a city planner, poking fun at the recent buzz generated towards his home. Adam would design handbags, and Bono claimed he would be a critic. He later invited his long time friend and manager Paul McGuiness on stage for the first time ever to celebrate his 60th birthday. Angel Stadium echoed with Happy Birthday chants as Paul embraced the band. As the night continued, sing along hits like “Sunday Bloody Sunday” and “Elevation” resulted in unison participation across the stadium.
Bono’s motivational personality rallied up the crowd as he repeatedly spoke about equality and justice, human rights and changing the world with music. He asked for everyone in attendance and around the world to contribute towards a better tomorrow, and stated the accomplishments of Amnesty International. Afterwards, Astronaut Mark Kelly introduced a touching performance of “A Beautiful Day”. He dedicated the song to his wife and congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords who was wounded in January during a shooting in Arizona. A video played showing Kelly arranging words “A Beautiful Day” in space while floating inside the International Space Station during Endeavour’s STS-134 mission. The message finished with Bowie’s Space Oddity line “Tell my wife I love her very much, she knows.”
U2’s 360° Tour included a two and a half hour set list that 25 tracks each night. They closed the show with “Moment of Surrender” as fans delivered a standing ovation. U2 now holds the coveted title of highest grossing tour of all time, surpassing the previous record of 558 Million set by The Rolling Stones. When U2 concludes their tour next month in Canada, they will have generated over 700 Million in tickets sold.
photos by: JACOB GAITAN
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Friday, June 17th U2 Set List. Space Oddity Encore: Aung San Suu Kyi Message Encore 2: Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me |
Saturday June 18th U2 Setlist Space Oddity Even Better Than The Real Thing I Will Follow Beautiful Day Pride (In The Name Of Love) I’ll Go Crazy If I Don’t Go Crazy Tonight Sunday Bloody Sunday Encore: Ultraviolet (Light My Way) First appearance of Where the Streets Have No Name early in the set since 1990 during the Lovetown Tour |
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LINKS:
http://www.u2.com
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http://www.u2.com/u2shop/
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