I've seen a bunch of Old 97s shows over the past 10 years or so, but this was one of the best. It rivals, if not bests, the first time or two you see them. The new format was great, with Murry leading off solo, then Rhett's solo set, then on to the 97s.
Murry's set was surreal - it was a smoldering, haunting block of music that mesmerized the audience. I remember the next day, as I turned on the ringer on my phone, that that was the 1st time I had ever turned off my ringer during a "rock" concert. I was worried someone might call and ruin the mood.
Rhett's set was good, as usual. He played some stuff off his new record (which I don't have) as well as music from his two other solo efforts. He did not play any of my favorites from those two, but that's my problem - he was very good.
By the time the complete Old 97s walked out the place was packed and ready. They were strong from the beginning, as usual, and the sound was great - a real problem the last couple of times. They performed all the concert standards and some really good selections from the last two albums. Personally, I wanted to hear "Here's to the Halcyon," but I'll live. I also kind of wish that "Color of the Lonely Heart is Blue" was in the Murry set, just because it fit better.
Overall, as I said, it was one of the best shows of theirs I've seen, which makes it one of the best shows I've seen.
