Magnetized

High Water Festival has the biggest price stratification between levels of any festival I know of. General admission $125, VIP $469, Platinum Pearl $1500. The GA price is a stone cold bargain.

Did you hear the new Wilco music they made? ..... I think the mercurial element of Jeff as an artist is a key component in what makes him and what he makes captivating. His lack of interest in simply making "rock and roll" is a part of how YHF became a sound. The fact that he continues to create from an authentic curiosity, rather than as a caretaker of fans, is what's kept the band throwing interesting curveballs. I'm glad he's not thinking about what a particular song might have meant to me personally because if he did, he'd probably get lost in generating a lot of garbage. While I appreciate the palpable respect this group of talented musicians has for their fanbase, I'm also glad their view of creativity isn't boxed in by some paternal responsibility for my feelings.

I don’t think you could have more perfectly summed up what it is I find so endlessly fascinating, compelling and soul satisfying about Jeff Tweedy. All of the whole Wilco experience too, of course, but it all flows from Jeff. Always curious, always surprising, always completely authentic. I think he does get swept up in specific, somewhat provocative things he wants to say during a particular creative cycle. A lot of the things he’s said recently have had similar themes. But I believe he believes it completely at the time he’s saying it. and so it always feels true and essential to me.

It was so gratifying to hear the crowd respond to that show with a full-on enthusiastic call for an encore. There are so many times it seems like the crowd takes it for granted that the band is coming back (and they always do). To hear the foot-stomping, hand-chafing, throat-wrecking response to the set must’ve really made the band happy. They sure worked for it.

Good for that crowd! This is one of my pet peeves—an entitled audience. Wilco never phones it in, and they deserve a crowd that returns the favor!

Here are a couple of reviews

 

https://livemusicnewsandreview.com/2019/10/wilco/

 

https://www.concertaddicts.com/reviews/wilco-soccer-mommy-booth-amphitheatre-october-16th-2019

 

This is a stellar piece of writing.

 

A middle-age man finds ‘Joy’ through Wilco

 

A few samples:

 

“Ode to Joy” isn’t exactly what the title implies: Sure it’s an ode to joy, but it’s not a simple celebration of the emotion. Rather, it’s more an appreciation of a dwindling resource. In this sense it’s a perfect Wilco title for a perfect Wilco album for times that might require a reminder that joy sometimes needs to be nurtured like a plant. It’s heartening that an artist (like frontman Jeff Tweedy) or assemblage of artists (Wilco) can command your interest after a quarter century with something other than nostalgia.

[...]

“Ode to Joy” is a spacious creature, which is odd for a record so clearly built around the drummer. It creates a new mold for a modern protest album.

Tweedy’s too smart to write a bunch of songs about how troubled he is by the 2016 election. Instead, like a novelist, he flows his feelings for our days into something more opaque yet enveloping. There are songs full of anxiety and mourning the absence of connection and communication. The songs are not arrows of protest, but rather something more like a fog or a dream.

You are so right. This cuts right to the quick. The writer gets it.

Edit: any word on if these songs were recorded at The Loft?

There’s a two-page spread in the magazine that covers details about every track. They were recorded lots of different ways, including at the Loft.

This is the teensiest little niggling point, but the way Jeff pronounces “escape” on One and a Half Stars drives me nuts! Throughout the song he says EE-scape rather than ess-cape. In live performance I don’t notice it so much.

Sorry for being so late in posting the set list from this show. I’ve driven about 560 miles over the past couple of days so it’s been tough to find the time. How do you do it, Bbop??

 

I have a few random thoughts and comments about this show. For reference, I had been to the show at the Anthem in DC the night before, which was a very different vibe. Well designed theater vs. outdoor venue in a park-like setting, similar in feel to Wolf Trap for those who might be familiar. Apparently there is a strict noise level ordinance in effect because it’s set amidst residential neighborhoods. I heard a lot of complaints about the sound level being too low but it was hard for me to focus on that because I was so frustrated with my terrible seat! I knew going in that it was not going to be an ideal seating situation because I was in the 11th row of the orchestra, but the sight lines were truly horrible. Yes, I’m short, but I literally couldn’t even see the stage from this seat. Fortunately, I was able to move up and stand at the rail on the extreme right side, with almost a completely sideways view—but hey, a great view of Pat!

 

I will say that most of the people I spoke with after the show enjoyed themselves, and from what I could tell people did seem to be into it— I heard several people express astonishment at the power of the songs, and they seemed to be listening intently as if they had never heard them before. That’s always a good sign. Also, the audience sprang to its feet when Wilco took the stage and remained standing as far as I could tell for the rest of the show.

 

Laminated Cat was positively ferocious and Random Name Generator had Jeff kicking up his heels, definitely having fun. After a mesmerizing Reservations, Jeff mentioned that he would always remember this venue for the smell of buttered popcorn. (He was right—it was pervasive.) A few songs later, before Impossible Germany, Jeff returned to the popcorn smell and remarked that it was a full-on popcorn assault. He reassured the audience that they had made it through all the sad songs now and he hoped the popcorn had kept everybody warm. At this point someone in the audience yelled “And the weed!” Jeff responded that that hadn’t been his experience and someone yelled back “ You weren’t doing it right!” Jeff replied “I wasn’t doing it right? Really? All right, I guess I’ll try again.” Then he shook his head and muttered, “Monsters!” Pretty funny exchange. At some point a little later someone yelled something that Jeff couldn’t understand and he thought it sounded like Spanx. He assured us he wasn’t wearing Spanx but he did mention that he had dropped a few pounds recently. I’ve never thought that Jeff looked tired or uninspired, but he seems positively rejuvenated recently. During Hummingbird he was doing a pretty damn energetic little Hummingbird dance which was a hoot!

 

Overall it was a great show with the Ode to Joy songs continuing to develop and bloom in the live performance. As we were walking out all the comments I heard were positive to absolutely glowing. So, despite my personal quibbles about the crappy seat and the kind of picnic-y atmosphere, Wilco delivered another powerful, fully satisfying show. In fact, the guy standing just to my right for most of the show kept asking me about the songs and just seemed beside himself with joy (pun intended) at hearing his first Wilco show. It’s always so heartwarming and reassuring to relive that first Wilco experience through someone else’s eyes.

 

My friend got a copy of the set list after the show and there were no changes. Wilco played 29 songs in about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Here then is the complete set list as played:

 

Bright Leaves

Before Us

I Am Trying to Break Your Heart

War On War

One and a Half Stars

If I Ever Was a Child

Handshake Drugs

At Least That’s What You Said

Either Way

Hummingbird

White Wooden Cross

Via Chicago

Laminated Cat

Random Name Generator

Reservations

We Were Lucky

Love Is Everywhere (Beware)

Impossible Germany

Box Full Of Letters

Everyone Hides

Dawned on Me

Heavy Metal Drummer

I’m The Man Who Loves You

(“fake encore”)

Hold Me Anyway

Misunderstood

----------------------------------

Red-Eyed And Blue>

I Got You (At The End of the Century)

California Stars

Late Greats

Fantastic show tonight! There were some changes from the printed setlist (which I got a copy of) but here’s the complete setlist as played. I’ll have more comments later. 29 songs, 2 hours and 15 minutes.

 

Bright Leaves

Before Us

I Am Trying to Break Your Heart

War on War

One and a Half Stars

If I Ever Was a Child

Handshake Drugs

At Least That’s What You Said

Hummingbird

White Wooden Cross

Via Chicago

Bull Black Nova

Random Name Generator

Reservations

We Were Lucky

Love is Everywhere (Beware)

Impossible Germany

Forget the Flowers

Boxful of Letters

Everyone Hides

Jesus etc.

Theologians

I’m the Man Who Loves You

Hold Me Anyway

Misunderstood (29 nothings!)

———————

California Stars

Red-Eyed and Blue

I Got You

Outtasite (Outtamind)

I love how many recognizable faces are in that audience!

good listen although it is really annoying that they edit it and remove blank space...

Yeah the pace of the conversation is totally unnatural. It removes some of the humanity.

Is that what they did? Yes, it was a disconcertingly speed-talking Jeff.

Hey Diane, Andrew Zender here. That Facebook group has gotten out of control. I don’t blame you one bit. I’ve gotten drawn into far more spats than I care to admit, and there’s definitely a strong vibe of personal attacks. The concept of “your opinion is wrong” runs rampant. The weekly “what’s the worst Wilco song?” or “rank the album” threads are getting really annoying. I’ve considered unfollowing and may have just talked myself into it.

I hope you don’t leave just yet. It seems to be getting a little better now that people are actually going to shows and sharing their excitement. But I understand the frustration, believe me.

It was jawdropping when they started the song. I had friends sitting in various seats all over the place, afterwards I saw that my phone blew up when they played it.

 

Another incredible personal story from last night. Over the last several years I've come to know this guy (he's my daughter's age) that I know from around town who's a big Phish and jam band music fan. We've become friends over the years and see each other at lots of shows. I haven't seen him in a long time given Sharon's illness and passing. He's pretty connected (his dad is a big deal in town). Before the show he asked me for my seat location and told me to stay in my seat after the show, a friend of his was going to bring me "something." I had no idea but my imagination was running wild. Turns out she found me and handed me the posters for both nights (they fit together) both autographed by the full band! Amazing. People are so kind.

 

Gary, it’s so inspiring to hear every bit of this story. I can only imagine how much this all meant to you because it really means a lot even to those of us who are hearing it secondhand. Also, how wonderful that you are able to appreciate this generosity and support. Like Jeff says, you’ve got family out there.

Honestly I wish we could have a Facebook group of 500 people MAX, the people who are/were regular VC posters, or go to lots of shows. Call it Wilco Snobs.

 

I like this! And the Highy Messed Up Freaks, but that actually predates me so I’m not worthy! But for real, it could be time to set up a splinter group. It’s worth considering.

 

For a short time we tried having a minimum barrier to admission (just what’s your favorite album and why) but because of different browsers and privacy settings it seemed like about half of the requests weren’t coming through. Facebook doesn’t make it easy to figure out.

 

Thanks for the suggestions, guys. It wasn’t my intention to hijack this thread to whine about Facebook moderation but I appreciate your thoughts and maybe there’s something we can do. Feel free to PM me or send a friend request if you’ve got any other ideas. Taking a cue from One Sunday Morning, “Oh, I’ll give it time.” For now, at least.

I am the beleaguered moderator in the Facebook group and to tell you the truth I am just about over it. The group has gotten way too big, I think it’s been invaded by trolls and there’s so much shitposting and backstabbing that it’s not fun anymore. I know that some of you here on this message board are also members of the Facebook group and I would sincerely appreciate any suggestions you might have as to some way to get that place back on track. I’ve always thought that this board and the Facebook group could compatibly coexist because they each have different strengths. (I also know that some people just hate Facebook on general principles and I’m beginning to understand that point of view!) My real name is Diane Kyrus and you can send me a PM.

 

Oh, and in the interest of keeping this post on topic, I am a huge fan of OTJ.

I certainly will be relying on others to hear about some of these upcoming OTJ shows in the U.S. since I won't be able to make it to as many as this past month in Europe. For instance, I'll have to miss the Boston shows next week as well as the upcoming shows in Washington, Cary, N.C., Atlanta and Birmingham (though I do currently plan to be in NYC/Nashville/Tulsa/Texas). And to answer your question, TCP, yes I should be in Saint Paul again as well, so I'll see you there!

Thanks for all of your stellar reportage, Paul, and thanks also for the heads up about the shows you’ll have to skip. I’ll be at the DC and Cary, NC shows and will do my best to at least provide an accurate set list for those two, as well as Charlottesville in November. (Although you didn’t mention that one, so maybe I’ll see you there?) It’s been great to go on this virtual jaunt through Europe with you. Rest up and I’ll see you in St. Paul!

Very funny! Maybe I should also include a spotlight feature on the six people who read these idiotic musings daily?

I’m ready for my closeup, Mr. DeMille.

 

By the way, thanks for the comments about observing audience reactions to the “predictable” songs in the setlist. It’s worth remembering that the vast majority of the audience is not following the band around night after night. But I for one am delighted that you do and provide us these recaps. They’re the first thing I look for in the morning when Wilco is on tour.

Your coverage is sorely missed, Paul. I do believe some other VC members are over there and did go to the show. Time for the slackers to take a break from la dolce vita and give us a Bbop-like recap!

Love the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. Lived there for a month last August. If you have time (and even if you're just a little bit of a fan), check out Paisley Park, Prince's home.

I was checking out details for tours of Paisley Park. There’s the basic tour for around $35 or a VIP tour that’s a little longer and includes a personal tour guide for $100. Any comments on one versus another?

That was a very generous and accurate observation about the fact that the European audiences are probably hearing all the new songs for the first time, and how much more Wilco’s songs open up and reveal upon repeated listenings.

Lots of interesting tidbits in this Stereogum interview: https://www.stereogum.com/2052900/jeff-tweedy-interview-wilco-ode-to-joy-portlandia-parks-and-recreation-nick-offerman-mavis-staples/franchises/interview/weve-got-a-file-on-you/

OMG! Fantastic!

Thanks for the recap, Mr. Lyft driver!

I’ve been thinking they’d announce a run of Chicago shows in December, not November, so I’m curious why the speculation is centering around November. My thought was that they did the 6-night Winterlude run in December 2014, and that was their 20th anniversary. This December will be the 25th anniversary and there’s nothing on their schedule.

 

I hear believable rumors of a West Coast tour in the spring, but that’s probably not a surprise to anyone.

Thanks, Paul! I’m thrilled they’re playing new songs. Looking forward to following along. Have a blast over there!

i’m watching the “shake it off” DVD with the wife and kiddos as I type (first viewing in a number of years- i forgot what an awesome, intimate peek the film is into the band’s process at the time). i have always felt that shake it off (the song) has gotten short shrift in terms of live performances. the rhythm/tempo shifts, the awesome vamp, jeff’s vocal- all of it is so much fun. i’m assuming the reason they haven’t pulled it out much is the tricky synchronization, and not because taylor swift had a bigger hit of the same title several years after...

 

regardless of the reason, i sneak a peek at wilcobase, and see it hasn’t been played since 2010? not even during the 20th anniversary residency and tour, with all the deep cuts? WTF?!?!?

 

thus begins my new request crusade. anyone who wants to join me in stuffing the ballot box, i’d appreciate you considering either night in boston in october.

They played it on 12/9/2014 during Winterlude. Fourth night of 6.