hooves on the turf

Download “Wake Up” (from ryspace.com, live at Judson Memorial Church)

or listen to this live track recorded by Ryan

Arcade Fire’s first of three shows, this one at United Palace, was solid. It must’ve been quite a night for those in the first 30 rows or so. Even the Lower Loge seemed to have a great view. For the rest of us there was a sad realization, looking down from ULOGE G, that we have been spoiled by our Boweries and Mercuries. The venue was beautiful, though, and I was close enough to the ceiling to admire its intricate insanity. My favorite part of the night, however, would have to be an A train packed to the brim with Arcade Fire concert-goers after the show.

(Review and photos continue after the jump)

Regine Chassagne sang much more impressively than I had anticipated. She played drums for quite a few songs, during some of which her huge, magenta projection on the large screen was engaging. There were some tracks from Funeral, but also lots from Neon Bible, including the title track, “Ocean of Noise,” “Keep the Car Running,” “No Cars Go,” etc. Towards the end came the old’s “Neighborhood #3 (Power Out)” and “Rebellion (Lies)” linked with a distorted transition we also saw at this year’s Coachella. During “Rebellion” singer Win Butler walked into the crowd, which, from where I sat, was impossible to see.

I did not pay much attention to the National. There were a few songs I couldn’t help but listen to attentively, but big venues can be distracting while the opening band is playing. Extra tickets will probably be available outside the venue tomorrow night as there seemed to be plenty available today.

Photos were hard from where I was, but here are the rest anyway:

Previously:

• Arcade Fire: modern-day art-rock answer to Springsteen + co?
  
• Arcade Fire at Coachella 2007 - videos