AE New American Music Union: Day 2

After all of the fun from Friday night's performances, I couldn't wait until Saturday. I'd wanted to catch some of the college acts, but fate didn't allow it. Fate also didn't allow me to get the first two main acts, Duke Spirit and Black Mountain, either. I'm definitely not complaining though, because I was at a media briefing instead. It was a very surreal, cool thing to be standing in the same medium-sized room as (not so medium) Tiny Masters of Today, Spoon, Anthony Kiedis, and Gnarls Barkley.

I did hear that both Duke Spirit and Black Mountain put on a great show. I'd listened to some Black Mountain previously, and I know that a lot of people appreciate their psychadelic rock. But, fewer people have heard of Duke Spirit, and I think that after Saturday's show, they've got some brand new fans. Personally, I could not wait for Spoon. I've been a fan of theirs for years, and I am still in awe from their performance. Though, a little tidbit of info that I didn't know was that they formed in 1993, and their first album was released in '96. But we'll get to them after Gnarls Barkley (gotta keep the order!).

In the press briefing, Gnarls Barkley was asked if we could have any indication to what outfit they'd be wearing that evening. After thinking about it for a second, Cee-Lo said, "We're not even sure yet, whatevers clean." Brian Burton (Danger Mouse) chimed in with, "We'll be matching." Their choice didn't let us down, either. They had on summery light, crisp white outfits with matching camel brown suit jackets. Their performance did not let us down, either. I was impressed with how well Cee-Lo's voice carried over the crowd for the entire set. Everyone in the crowd (including me!) danced to songs like "Smiley Faces", "Run", and of course, "Crazy". There were a couple slow ones mixed in, but they were artfully added to keep the crowd entertained.

Next, I watched as Spoon came out onto the stage to do some sound checks, and make sure the equipment was set up properly. At the beginning of their show, they all had on sunglasses. Lead singer and guitarist, Britt Daniel mentioned that it's the 3rd time they've been in Pittsburgh in the last year. (I hope there will be a 4th...and 5th!) Keyboardist Eric Harvey also caught my attention because he looked like he was having a good time jammin' out and tappin' the ivories. They also literally played ALL of my favorite songs. I really couldn't have been any happier. Also, it was noticeable that the rest of the audience was pleased with their song choices, as well. But, I don't want to keep going on and on and sound like a crazy superfan -- SO, moving along...

The Raconteurs rocked the entire Southside of Pittsburgh with their show. By this time in the show, I admit I was more towards the back. But, that didn't change the fact that they had an obvious amount of fun just playing the hell out of their guitars. Their song performances included, "Steady As She Goes", which was written by Jack White and Brendan Benson. It was actually that very song that inspired them to go full force with an actual band in 2005. All of the band's fans were very pleased and glad to have gotten to see them in our city of Pittsburgh. Oh, and if you love them, and want to check out their site, you should! It's quite sensational in a 'dual color Pre-Windows platform' kind of way.

Ah, and last but certainly not least, Bob Dylan and his band. I will sheepishly mention that I was unbelievably exhausted by this time. Of course, I was ecstatic to see Dylan, knowing that I can say I saw him in concert. The crowd was amazing, the night was beautiful and clear, everything was perfect. But, I've got someone that can tell you all about it better than I. Luckily, Torre MacQueen wasn't as bleary as me, and she'll soon have a bunch more to fill you in on concerning the end of the evening. So, keep your eyes out for her story!

Oh! I wanted to quickly add that when Anthony Kiedis made a brief appearance on stage, he genuinely said he couldn't be more pleased with the turnout. (Whoooo!) Must have been true too, because on his way off stage, he yelled "See ya next year!" So...looks like there will be another great music festival next year. I don't know about you guys, but I can't wait to see who will be playing in the Steel City next year!