Brilliant show in Richmond. Probably just 12 or so songs, but they played nearly two hours. The National was a nice setting - big theater w/ big stage. Room on the floor. The band took their time with the songs and let them breathe.
Steve Hunter on lead guitar and Tony Smith on drums were smoking. Hunter reminded me of a golden retriever just waiting to run around. When the door was open - as it was on Mad, Sweet Jane and Video Violence in particular, he just ran around w/ a shit eating grin like a retriever chasing squirrels, catching balls and what not. Awesome, awesome stuff. You just couldn't help but smile when he let loose.
With that band, the songs are incidental. Any framework for them to paint will work. But Mad, Sweet Jane, I'm Set Free Satellite of Love, Halloween Parade, Walk on the Wild Side (!), Video Violence and Pale Blue Eyes(!!) were exceptional.
Reminded me a bit of Bob Dylan's show at 9:30 4 years ago. There was a wistful romantic theme. Makes sense, since apparently Lou married Laurie Anderson this month.
It was funny to hear people scream for Venus in Furs or European Son. Great songs, but totally at odds with the 'vibe' of the show. Very much a VU s/t vibe. Obviously there were a million songs that could have been played, but like a good album, only certain songs fit.
Good crowd. Almost no talking, even in the sedate moments. It seemed most the people had their own memories of Lou's music and appreciated hearing what Lou age 66 - and his awesome band - had to deliver.
