To say that this show was amazing is an understatement. The combination of Tom Morello and Boots Riley is like finding a two magic potions that - when mixed together - generate hot, funky, rocking, riveting, moving, music. Both these guys are MASTER showmen and know how to work an audience. When the band started, they all wore these military-esque jackets (adorned with custom SSSC patches and graphics on the back) and aviator glasses (reminded me of Men in Black) which gave the audience the feeling that this was indeed a tight unit - on EVERY level. Evidently a LOT OF THOUGHT went into this act. Right down to the styling.
Their backup band (undoubtedly hand picked by Morello ) is hot as hell, with a beat that just won't quit and backup vocals and secondary guitar parts that put the final touches on the picture. For a "newer" band, their live sound was VERY mature.
There were so many points where the band was unleashed and the stage was a moving, writhing, musical tornado. Video just can't capture the vibe. You HAVE TO BE THERE TO SEE IT! It's like the difference between looking at a picture of the Grand Canyon and being there. One takes your breath away. One is, well, just a picture.
The house sound for them was awesome as well. This project is really something to see live and should NOT be missed.
The Memorials were terrific too. I'd love to see them in a headlining situation where the sound could be more well defined. As the opening act, the sound (I'm referring to the house sound) was not the greatest, and I believe that's because we were just getting what came off the stage. Great players though and terrific vibe. Like I said, I'd love to see them with proper sound.