NEW YORK, NEW YORK
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Spotlight on The River
By Jason Franks
The River is a perfect mix of ballads, fun songs, and all-out rockers. Tonight at Madison Square Garden, all 20 of these songs were put on display, in sequence, for the first time in Bruce's career. To say that this night was "a real treat" is a massive understatement. First things first, the New York City version of "Wrecking Ball" opened the show before a wildly enthusiastic crowd. In fact, this was one of the best crowds in recent memory. It seemed as though tonight's audience fully understood what this show meant to both Bruce and themselves. This was not just another show... it was one for the ages.
The album set came out early tonight, beginning in slot number two. One of the highlights of the first part of the album was a truly remarkable "Sherry Darling." The party noises were out in full force on this "fraternity rock" juggernaut, and this is definitely a song that Bruce and the E Street Band enjoy playing. "Crush on You," in a rare appearance, really had the New York crowd going. The chorus portions were belted out so loudly that, at times, it seemed as if every member of the audience was singing in unison.
Of course, tonight's centerpiece album had some truly special moments for the longtime fans. "Stolen Car" and "Wreck on the Highway," though rarely played, were stand-outs with their lyrics pouring into the hearts of all in attendance. These songs just have so much meaning for so many of Bruce's die-hard fans. Similarly, "Fade Away" and "Drive All Night" were absolutely stunning in their full band arrangements. Both songs sent chills through the Garden. And what about "Cadillac Ranch"? Well, this one set the place on fire. People were jumping way up in the 400 level!
Once the album portion was completed (yes, there was more), a great request brought "Atlantic City" to the forefront. Max absolutely killed on this one, with Little Steven doing his part on the mandolin. The band brought the Garden to a whole new level with main set closer "Seven Nights to Rock." It's difficult to remember any audience that reacted with such exuberance to this song. Bruce looked to be having an all-out ball as he ripped through the fast-paced tune.
Tonight's encore continued with that "special" theme. "Sweet Soul Music" led things off with spotlights on Clarence, Steve, and Bruce himself. Yet again, the crowd brought their A-game for this one as they were definitely excited to hear this classic cover after a lengthy absence. Bruce then dug deep with one more request and played Elvis Presley's "Can't Help Falling in Love." Very fitting, as Bruce played this one a number of times on The River tour, but few times since then. "Higher and Higher" made another appearance in the closing spot, leaving the crowd jumping after another three hour marathon.
This was a show with very high expectations. Those expectations were met with a performance that exceeded them on every level. Whether it was the crowd, the Garden, being in New York City, or the playing of The River album, this concert was one that those in attendance will talk about for a long time. It was one that will go down as yet another historic night in the history of the E Street Nation.
