To say it was a classic Wilco show would be a massive understatement. The band was as precise as a souped-up computer on steroids. The band members hit every note on time and it rang through the place like an invisible, innocuous golden dust.
Tweedy told us we were looking "Well" and then later compared themselves to Queen and Kiss. I think the only way Wilco could even begin to sound like Queen would be for them to do a stellar cover version of "Crazy Little Thing Called Love," but then what do I know? I did, however, see Queen in London around 1975.
The guys shot out the bars from "Spiders" from their 2004 album, "A Ghost is Born." A long, loud and very satisfying ride of a tune—everyone appeared to be out of their seat and dancing to the music. The song cooked and popped like evil bacon and water in a greasy skillet.
At some point, I can't recall correctly, Jeff and company had the entire audience stand and deliver the clap of their hands for an entire ten minutes. This was a chore and my ancient, over-worked arms got tired. I don't see the point of this exercise, but I could witness the dedication of Wilco fans in Colorado all through the audience like an acceptable virus.
I was so happy that I lost track of the ending and encore of the show. Being sober, it was hard to believe. They cast their musical spell on all of us.
During "Handshake Drugs" after purchasing two Eldorado Waters from the concession stand left of the stage, I lost my phone.
I spent the time they played my favorite number running all around the joint with a flashlight searching for my communication unit. I even went down row twenty-four—which freaked a few hippies out I think.
During the second or third encore "Hummingbird" we decided to exit after I left phone numbers with Kent from security (he was nice). This was slightly to my chagrin, but it was time to get out before everyone else and their Mom decided it was time for coffee.
Article comments
1 - Phillip Winn
I saw Wilco in Dallas last year, and it was fantastic. There were some odd things about the evening as well: One woman had a seizure, I believe, and her brother (?) was quite angry about it.
Still, I remember the music. The beautiful, precise (just as you say), perfect music. So haunting and rugged, so passion-filled and clean. So amazing!
2 - Jane Ripley
I feel for them. That must have been very difficult to attend a show and have that happen.
The music is perfect. It's amazing this band has that edgy thing going on. They remind me of a million bands all rolled together in one. It's almost odd really.