Hi Everyone
Just got back from both concerts so thought I would put up some thoughts. I see Ken has done an excellent review already so will try to add some extras.
Some general comments
- Mark's voice is sounding amazing and he is really getting out some good ranges. When I saw him last on the STP tour his voice was taking strain and more deeper than normal, but its the bests its ever been now. It also appears he is also very aware now of his vocal delivery and not to let the band be to overpowering in relation to the vocals.
- The formats and jokes were generally exactly as previous concerts with obviously the new songs thrown in. e.g. Sultans after Romeo and Juliet, MOFN after BIA
- Merchandise seemed a bit lacking. There were only shirts and caps, no badges, cups or tour brochures so I dont know if they will be added as the tour unfolds.
- The sound overall was excellent. First concert I was at the front, second at the back. The sound was stunning further back but you sacrifice on the visual side so its a toss up. On the first night Mark's vocals and guitar were a bit off on the opening track but the tech guys sorted it out quick. On the second night the vocals were a bit soft for BLT but I cant think of any other problems. One must also remember its the start of the tour so they still working on the sound.
- 2nd night Mark talked a lot with the crowd as people kept shouting out for some arbitrary dire straits number he would say "Dont worry we will play them all, every last one" It was also nice to hear him go into details how the trawlerman was inspired by him being in cape town on holiday. He also said he loves the wine here and had finished the whole lot he had shipped back, to which someone heckled "then buy some more"
- 2nd night was a slightly shorter concert. Back to Tupelo was added and a few of the first nights songs were removed. All the new songs sounded amazing and the arrangements were generally fresh and inspiring for the older ones. The crowd were very appreciative for Mark. Sultans was the best version I have ever heard: The stripped down 4 piece like the original band with band raging the tempo up towards the end. Awesome version. all guitars bass and rhythm, just like the original. Stunning.
In conclusion: By far the best MK concerts I have been lucky to go to. The crowd were warm and appreciative, MK sounds better than ever and the band purred like a Rolls Royce, tight controlled and dynamic. Its thrilling to hear all the new songs live and Mark seems to be enjoying touring once again and appears physically in good shape. You guys are all in for a treat when you get to see him!
thanks
Max
Just got back from both concerts so thought I would put up some thoughts. I see Ken has done an excellent review already so will try to add some extras.
Some general comments
- Mark's voice is sounding amazing and he is really getting out some good ranges. When I saw him last on the STP tour his voice was taking strain and more deeper than normal, but its the bests its ever been now. It also appears he is also very aware now of his vocal delivery and not to let the band be to overpowering in relation to the vocals.
- The formats and jokes were generally exactly as previous concerts with obviously the new songs thrown in. e.g. Sultans after Romeo and Juliet, MOFN after BIA
- Merchandise seemed a bit lacking. There were only shirts and caps, no badges, cups or tour brochures so I dont know if they will be added as the tour unfolds.
- The sound overall was excellent. First concert I was at the front, second at the back. The sound was stunning further back but you sacrifice on the visual side so its a toss up. On the first night Mark's vocals and guitar were a bit off on the opening track but the tech guys sorted it out quick. On the second night the vocals were a bit soft for BLT but I cant think of any other problems. One must also remember its the start of the tour so they still working on the sound.
- 2nd night Mark talked a lot with the crowd as people kept shouting out for some arbitrary dire straits number he would say "Dont worry we will play them all, every last one" It was also nice to hear him go into details how the trawlerman was inspired by him being in cape town on holiday. He also said he loves the wine here and had finished the whole lot he had shipped back, to which someone heckled "then buy some more"
- 2nd night was a slightly shorter concert. Back to Tupelo was added and a few of the first nights songs were removed. All the new songs sounded amazing and the arrangements were generally fresh and inspiring for the older ones. The crowd were very appreciative for Mark. Sultans was the best version I have ever heard: The stripped down 4 piece like the original band with band raging the tempo up towards the end. Awesome version. all guitars bass and rhythm, just like the original. Stunning.
In conclusion: By far the best MK concerts I have been lucky to go to. The crowd were warm and appreciative, MK sounds better than ever and the band purred like a Rolls Royce, tight controlled and dynamic. Its thrilling to hear all the new songs live and Mark seems to be enjoying touring once again and appears physically in good shape. You guys are all in for a treat when you get to see him!
thanks
Max
