On Friday the 15th, my sons and I went with Andy to Cricket Pavilion for the NIN/Jane's Addiction show. I had never heard of the opening band and wasn't expecting much from them. Their name was Street Sweeper Social Club and they were... AWESOME. It turns out that guitarist Tom Morello teamed up with rapper Boots Riley for this side project and it paid off. These guys were so good that I am actually going to buy their album when it comes out in June rather than just "download" it (thanks Koren).Next up, we thought we were waiting for Jane's Addiction but it turned out to be Nine Inch Nails! They were amazing and did about a two hour set that had 15 to 20 thousand people on their feet. Trent Reznor was in good form and he certainly did not disappoint. Although every song was performed to perfection, the coolest was when they performed "Head Like a Hole" because just about everyone in the arena was shouting the words like an anthem.
Jane's Addiction started off strong with a staggering performance of "Three Days". There was a moment during the lengthy instrumentals when the audience seemed to sway with the very pulse of the bass. Perry Farrell's voice but cracked in places. Even still they sang some great songs. At one point Dave Navarro was in the middle of a guitar solo when some asshole in the pit threw a cup of beer at his chest. Beer splashed all over him and his guitar but he never missed a note. At the end of the song, Perry asked in a very feminine voice "How did you know we were thirsty?"
After that, they sang the much anticipated "Being Caught Stealin" (which seemed to be lacking in entertainment value) so we left immediately afterwords.
It was almost midnight, there was about 15 thousand other people who would be competing for the road and we were on the west side. IT was a great show and the perfect way to start the weekend. I know that the boys had a great time and we will all remember the performances for a long time to come. Colleen, I think you chose the wrong concert. I know you made the decision for your kids but having seen No Doubt open for U2 in 2001, NIN blew them away. Regardless, I am sure you will enjoy your show but you missed a really great one this time. Now the boys are asking to go to the Marilyn Manson/Slayer show in July... I can hardly wait!!!
