OT: U2 Concert

[Adam BK]

It was a great night and U2 put in a great performance but I wouldn't be surprised if they don't come here again. No wonder bands don't come here often when people sit in the stands stunned like they are at an opera performance and occasionally cheer when Bono says 'Adelaide' or 'South Australia'. I was there in the stands clapping, singing, screaming, standing etc. The mosh pit looked like they were having a ball but thats really no surprise. But I cant say the same for the majority of the crowd, apart from the occasional group of people. I have talked to a U2 fan who has been to something like 60 concerts throughout their career (ie the last 20 or so years) in Australia and around the world and he said it was the worst atmosphere he has ever seen at a U2 concert and that he has never seen so many people sit before. (Its frowned upon people seating at the concerts in the US, Europe, South America etc.)

I wouldn't be surprised if the crowd 13 years ago was louder then Thursday's night concert yet being much smaller number.

 

[Adam BK]

. I had tickets but I sold them as I needed to study for an exam this morning. I had an exam yesterday afternoon thus meaning I couldn't queue for U2 and study whilst waiting. ********ing exams.

I just really hope they tour again, and this time nothing will stop me.

I had an exam 9am (3 hours), 2pm (3 hours) on the day of the concert, and 9am (2.5 hours) the following morning. I just made sure I would prepare better in advance so I could go. I didn't want to miss seeing them live for the first time. I originally had GA tickets but when it was reschelduled I sold the GA tickets and bought A-reserved tickets. With hindsight I probably should have kept the GA tickets even though I would get there late there was still lots of room on the right side of the oval.

 

[just maybe]

To anybody here that got GA tickets, what time did you line up to get a decent place? Did anyone get into the inner circle?

Going to tomorrow's Melbourne concert, cannot wait!

I arrived just after 4 and got into the inner circle a couple of minutes before it was closed.

 

[maccas_no1]

Gee, yeh, that's all it takes

Countless millions have been poured in yet it still hasnt made any difference, Im not saying it pointless but surely we should have seen improvement.

 

[just maybe]

Countless millions have been poured in yet it still hasnt made any difference, Im not saying it pointless but surely we should have seen improvement.

So you think if you throw money at the problem it will go away? You think millions is going to stop poverty anyway?

I don't mean this to sound rude, but it probably will: get a clue about poverty and poverty reduction. I don't mean that offensively, but just that you patently don't have a bloody clue about the area and it would help you greatly to learn something about it.

First lesson: throwing money at poverty-stricken countries is not the answer, and never will be.

 

[PrideofSA]

Countless millions have been poured in yet it still hasnt made any difference, Im not saying it pointless but surely we should have seen improvement.

Poor form to bag a man who is trying to use his position to make a positve difference to the world.

I say if you are going to bag anyone, it would be the people who do nothing, yet whinge about all the worlds problems.

 

[maccas_no1]

So you think if you throw money at the problem it will go away? You think millions is going to stop poverty anyway?

I don't mean this to sound rude, but it probably will: get a clue about poverty and poverty reduction. I don't mean that offensively, but just that you patently don't have a bloody clue about the area and it would help you greatly to learn something about it.

First lesson: throwing money at poverty-stricken countries is not the answer, and never will be.

I agree you cant just thrown maney at them, but Im saying in aid relief and all the support from Western countries, it hasnt changed the situation alot.

 

[maccas_no1]

Poor form to bag a man who is trying to use his position to make a positve difference to the world.

I say if you are going to bag anyone, it would be the people who do nothing, yet whinge about all the worlds problems.

But is it Australia's fault???? Geez Australian's would have to be the most giving people in the world, Im not bagging Bono but it seems to be too much of his focus, I mean yes mention it but people goto a concert for exactly that, Im sure all major international bands have issues around the world that they would like their fans to help out with, but they dont bring it up or harp on it.

 

[Blue Red and Gold]

I thought the concert was great, they gave it all, it was disappointing that the crowd didnt get as involved though.

Kanye West was a disappointment for mine. I am not a huge fan but I was looking forward to seeing him as he is a big act in itself. Im not sure if Hip hop works in such a big open stadium type atmosphere, the sound just seems to get distorted.

 

[hilly]

Does anyone know:

How long was Kanye on for?
How long was U2 on for?

Cheers

 

[Blue Red and Gold]

Does anyone know:

How long was Kanye on for?
How long was U2 on for?

Cheers

U2 came on just after 8:30 and were on until 11.

They played 2 encores

I think Kanye played for about an hour, maybe a little less

 

[just maybe]

I agree you cant just thrown maney at them, but Im saying in aid relief and all the support from Western countries, it hasnt changed the situation alot.

Actually, it has changed the situation a lot. And aid relief compared to the problem has been miniscule. And the problem has also been throwing money where it won't be used to improve things. This isn't an open and shut case, and you'll sound foolish commenting on it in a social situation if this is the limit of your argument.

 

[just maybe]

But is it Australia's fault???? Geez Australian's would have to be the most giving people in the world, Im not bagging Bono but it seems to be too much of his focus, I mean yes mention it but people goto a concert for exactly that, Im sure all major international bands have issues around the world that they would like their fans to help out with, but they dont bring it up or harp on it.

No. Bono is the most high-profile activist of any international bands by far. Their politics have ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS been part and parcel of who they are. Any self-respecting U2 fan would know this and would be expecting a political element to their show. Right back from day 1, they've been a political band.

Too much of his focus? What is more important, mate? People dying and Bono finding a way to bring it to people's minds through music, or just music?

Think about it.

 

[just maybe]

U2 came on just after 8:30 and were on until 11.

They played 2 encores

I think Kanye played for about an hour, maybe a little less

I'd say more like 30-40 mins for Kanye.

 

[AC07]

Countless millions have been poured in yet it still hasnt made any difference, Im not saying it pointless but surely we should have seen improvement.

Do yourselves a favour and go buy the book Bono On Bono.

It an interview with him about his life including the political side and Africa's debt.

It explains the history with aid and why in the past most aid has gone to the wrong people. Bono isn't trying to just get poeple to give aid but he is trying to remove the debt africa owes. It's got everything about U2 in it.

Really go read it. It's an International Best seller.

I have 2 words that explained the concert for me. 'Life Changing'. Maybe I accepted what he was doing a little more because I am currently reading the book.

Coexist !!

 

[AC07]

But is it Australia's fault???? Geez Australian's would have to be the most giving people in the world, Im not bagging Bono but it seems to be too much of his focus, I mean yes mention it but people goto a concert for exactly that, Im sure all major international bands have issues around the world that they would like their fans to help out with, but they dont bring it up or harp on it.

Firstly this is not an issue of U2's. You are partly responsible aswell, we all are. This is a global issue. Just because you were lucky enough to be born/immigrate to a lucky country doesn't mean you can turn your back on the not so lucky nor does it mean your not responsible for it. The corruption of the aid given is the fault of different Governments that want the debt repayed and now with global trade this means all Governments have responsibility to help. We elect the Government. We are also responsible. As I have said before please go read the book mentioned. It will help you understand or visit http://www.makepovertyhistory.com.au/aim2.html

Also other bands appear to only have one passion and that is to sing and perform in front of as many people as possible. (share the music), Most however don't really get any strong useful message accross.

Bono does not like the idea of being famous. He hates using the back door as an exit. Most bands thrive on this. He also still lives in Ireland with his wife and children. He also owns his own music. U2 own every thing. Most bands couldn't do what he does as the record labels wouldn't allow it. They are the only band on this scale that have a 100% say in what they do. U2 don't get told they are doing a tour to promote an album so the record company makes money. They decide that they will do a tour and do it for themselves and for what they believe in, not for a record company. That's another reason why they have so much power and can do what they like.

Bono uses his popularity as a tool to do some good on this earth. He has always been like this but now he is just better at it.

Anyway just read the book.

 

[CaptainDangerfield]

I thought the concert was great, they gave it all, it was disappointing that the crowd didnt get as involved though.
Kanye West was a disappointment for mine. I am not a huge fan but I was looking forward to seeing him as he is a big act in itself. Im not sure if Hip hop works in such a big open stadium type atmosphere, the sound just seems to get distorted.

That's what soured the night for me somewhat. I was sitting in the stands to the left of the members. Despite the best efforts of the band, it's like the majority of the fans SITTING near me were at a picture theatre. I think some Adelaidians need to be told how to have a good time, either that, or copious amounts of alcohol need to be distributed at the entrance.

If I ever go to a show at footy park again, I will be standing down with the punters.

 

[CaptainDangerfield]

So you think if you throw money at the problem it will go away? You think millions is going to stop poverty anyway?

I don't mean this to sound rude, but it probably will: get a clue about poverty and poverty reduction. I don't mean that offensively, but just that you patently don't have a bloody clue about the area and it would help you greatly to learn something about it.

First lesson: throwing money at poverty-stricken countries is not the answer, and never will be.

So what is the answer?? In the 40-50 years since independence most African countries have either stagnated or gone backwards ( Zimbabwe). If we were serious about solving Africas problems, instead of blowing billions on the Iraq debacle, we could have used the money and resources to oust African tyrants like Mugabe, Bashir etc etc.

Who was in greater need of SAVING ( ) back in 2003, the people of Iraq or the people of Zimbabwe, Sudan etc. Taylor was a good start but that's the tip of the iceberg.

 

[just maybe]

So what is the answer?? In the 40-50 years since independence most African countries have either stagnated or gone backwards ( Zimbabwe). If we were serious about solving Africas problems, instead of blowing billions on the Iraq debacle, we could have used the money and resources to oust African tyrants like Mugabe, Bashir etc etc.

Who was in greater need of SAVING ( ) back in 2003, the people of Iraq or the people of Zimbabwe, Sudan etc. Taylor was a good start but that's the tip of the iceberg.

So now you want Bono to advocate invading countries?

FFS.

 

[CaptainDangerfield]

So now you want Bono to advocate invading countries?

FFS.

And your answer Einstein? Didn't the old "Let's not stick our noses in, let them sort out their own problems". work wonders in Rwanda.
Why we go around in circles talking huff and puff, Mugabe and co. continue down their path of self destruction. History shows sanctions and foreign aid don't solve the probem. If anything, in both cases, they make matters worse.

 

[just maybe]

And your answer Einstein? Didn't the old "Let's not stick our noses in, let them sort out their own problems". work wonders in Rwanda.
Why we go around in circles talking huff and puff, Mugabe and co. continue down their path of self destruction. History shows sanctions and foreign aid don't solve the probem. If anything, in both cases, they make matters worse.

Go do some reading on humanitarian intervention, then you'll see the difference between Rwanda (gee, widespread mass genocide, that's happening in so many countries) and just randomly invading other countries we don't like.

No, sanctions don't work. But history does not 'show foreign aid doesn't solve the problem'. That's a profoundly ignorant and dullard statement.

 

[CaptainDangerfield]

Go do some reading on humanitarian intervention, then you'll see the difference between Rwanda (gee, widespread mass genocide, that's happening in so many countries) and just randomly invading other countries we don't like.

No, sanctions don't work. But history does not 'show foreign aid doesn't solve the problem'. That's a profoundly ignorant and dullard statement.

Alot of talking, no results - typical lefty.

 

[UpForGrabs]

I flew over from Perth for the gig and loved it.

Was in the GA - about 5m back from the front and centre of the stage. We got in line at about 2:30pm, but a friend of mine was there at 9am so we kind of went and said hello to her and never left.

Awesome gig - atmosphere was electric where I was. As for the political stuff, it was expected and at least he didn't go into any David Hicks-related stuff like he did in Brisbane.

Kanye was better than expected - he did alright considering it wasn't his crowd by any stretch of the imagination. I wouldn't be against seeing him among Kanye crowds and getting a better idea of what a real Kanye live show's about.

 

[just maybe]

Alot of talking, no results - typical lefty.

Nice cover for your lack of response. Just hurl abuse instead.

Miserable.

 

[Kane McGoodwin]

Springy & JM - stop with the personal stuff. Given you political differences, you are never going to make the other agree with you & abusing the other won't change they're mind either!

Back to the gig, it was awesome. Best since, well the last U2 concert I saw. I too was a little disappointed by Kanye, but didn't take the gloss of a great night.