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Hi Lunies, Before anyone who might be interested in reading a review of the show begins reading, I must explain that this particular post is not necessarily about the Philly show. Although it includes my thoughts and sentiments on the show, it's a story on a whole other level. Just thought I'd warn those of you who might be ready to criticize my writings here -- you've been forewarned that it's not about the PG show (and it's in the title also, so shame on you if you read it and want to rip it apart). So, here it goes: The Philly show on Friday, 9/21/12 was so very special to me in many, many ways and I can say that I did not walk away disappointed. I am already a bit melancholy, though, and this is typical for me (and I think for other lunies) -- there seems to be a bit of post-show depression (not sure if that's the correct word, but I think you might know what I mean). Of course, Peter Gabriel is my favorite artist by far, no secret here. I have always been especially happy to see PG play in Philly -- it's my hometown and it's where I have seen him perform nearly all of his local shows. I've seen him perform in this same building -- Wells Fargo Center (used to be Wachovia Center - during Growing Up Tour). When the tix went on pre-sale for these shows this year, I was in the midst of having a "not-so-great" year -- hell, it had been a "not-so-great year and one-half" at the time of these tix going on sale. I was in the midst of making a decision to change jobs -- during a time when the job market is fragile (to say the least) and even for someone in my profession (a registered nurse with lots of varied experience), jobs are not as easy to come by as before. I had a lot of things to work out for myself -- I was incredibly unhappy with the place I worked -- not what I do for a living -- I love being a nurse; I was unhappy with the administration, the lack of staff and the predicament it placed me in -- I must maintain my professional license in order to work and many times felt that my license was being jeopardized because of the lack of staff, etc. This was the first and only time in my life where I worked for a place that I was embarassed to say I worked as a nurse. I was in a difficult place, but as usual, I worked through it, knowing that I would land on my feet -- mostly because of my own determination, but also because I have the love and support of my family and some very good friends. Yet, it was still scary to make a move. But I did it and I am soooooooo very happy with the change that I've made. I feel like myself again -- and I'm actually a pretty cool person -- I laugh a lot, I chat a little bit , and I am so very happy to be involved in real life events again. Okay, I warned you that this wasn't going to be any real review of the Philly show, so for those of you who are already bored, you can stop reading now, no offense taken. So, I interviewed for a new position -- Assistant Director or Nursing (fancy title, not so fancy job ) and during my interview I was sure to mention that if I got the job, I'd be going to some PG shows in the fall -- I think I was hired for that reason alone -- as it turned out, the Director of Nursing who interviewed me was wearing a Dave Matthews Band Tee-shirt (here I am dressed up for the interview and she's in a DMB tee-shirt and jeans) -- turns out it was "Rock Band" Day at the place and they were all dressed down and there were rock band contests going on . The DON, my boss, is a huge DMB fan, as well as a hippie -- so we spent a good bit of time discussing music. It's a good thing we share similar tastes in music because we share an office and listen to music all day long. I worked out which shows I was going to attend -- Philly was an absolute, without a doubt, given while NY was really on the back burner (because I hoped for a 2nd Philly show -- greedy, I know) and debated about Las Vegas (too expensive, too far) and then eventually jumped on Fairfax VA once I realized it's the same distance as NY is. I lined up my Philly folks -- my sister, Anna, my nephew, Joe, myself, and I bought myself the VIP tix, two tix for Anna and Joe, two tix for two other lunatics whom I felt had helped me through some of the previous months while working out my dilemma. Unfortunately, one of lunatics was not at all interested in coming to Philly, so the ticket never presented itself to her -- I'd just decided not to mention it because I didn't want to appear to be bribing someone to come to Philly; it was okay though because I then planned on surprising the lunie with a NY tix, but alas, some things are not meant to be and in the end, that idea was squashed, but probably for the best as I see it now. So, I was able to sell this ticket to a friend of Laura's, Karen, who was able to really enjoy the show -- I'm glad. The ticket I had for the other lunie -- Jennifer -- was held until the last possible minute (well, until @ 2 wks before the show) with the high hopes that she'd be able to make it to Philly. I'm still a bit bummed that she couldn't make it, but know that we will meet someday. Not wanting to waste the ticket, it was going to be bought by a friend of another lunie, but at the last minute the person couldn't use the ticket. Instead, my great niece Morgan (14 years old) used the ticket -- and she thoroughly enjoyed the show! So, on Friday night in Philly, there were 3 generations of lunatics in the audience -- my sister and I, my nephew Joe and his daughter Morgan! Not a single one of us was disappointed.! Seeing PG in Wells Fargo was a bit more bittersweet for me this time 'round because I now live in Lancaster and this was my first time in WF venue since moving here. I used to work events security and worked stage front in that venue -- it was a homecoming for me and I was able to see some of the guys that I had worked with. Very nice night for me on many different levels -- seeing my family, my friends and my fellow lunies -- all there in one building, with PG present! And what a fantastic crowd it was! I promise to write a real review of the shows -- Philly and NY (and they're very different reviews, indeed), but really wanted to write this tonight -- feeling a bit nostalgic for the days when I worked events, feeling exhilerated from the wonderful natural high that I get from PG shows, feeling happy to have been able to meet up with some lunatics and have some fun together and feeling very, very happy and blessed to be able to continue to do what I do for a living and still run around chasing my PG rainbow! BTW -- I have applied for a postiion with PG -- "Captain of the PG Cheerleading Team" -- hell, I'm more than qualified for the job and have been doing it for years -- I just think the commute might be tough! Kind regards to all,

Pat as disappointed as I was about not being able to make it to Philly, I'm really glad that your niece was able to attend. How special to have so many friends and family members at the same show! You're right we will get to meet in the (hopefully not too distant) future Can't wait to hear your reviews!

Pat,nice event for you. While I look forward to your review, I think I pretty much could write that myself. I'm more interested in the differences between Philly and the Beach. I've been to many concerts at the Beach as well as all types of venues. The beauty of the beach makes it a great place, some intimacies are lost with the outdoor venue. And depending on where you sit, you have no feel for other sections of the venue. I will say we had one beautiful night, the weather was gorgeous and Peter was incredible. The early part of the show reminded me a lot of seeing Pete in the early days of his solo career. Great band, small stage, cool lights and I felt the musicians really got to cut loose more so than on some of his more recent tours. The whole night had a great feel for me and this was the best show I've seen from Pete in a while. I always love his shows, don't get me wrong, but this was better than UP or SMB tours for me. It was even better than the original SO tour to me, although that is still my least favorite PG tour so it better have been. I thought everything was close to perfect, I liked the sequence of songs and the transition from Acoustic to Electric with Family Snapshot was awesome.

Pat and I were at the same two concerts, but I think I will let her give her reviews of the shows, rather than state my own. She knows exactly how I feel about both of them, as we were side by side at most of the Philly show, and then went out after Jones Beach and discuss the show over some beers at an Irish pub. Pat is an eloquent writer, and will most likely express a similar opinion and review. I am still walking around humming, and buzzing from the shows. I'm definitely beginning to go through the post-show depression as well, and I keep looking at the calendar thinking "is there any way I can make it to another show?" It's not likely, but I am grateful to have make it from Florida to see PG on this tour. I agree Laredo-Family Snapshot was fantastic!

Ela, some of us get accused of loving PG if he comes out and reads the dictionary. That's one reason I didn't go into a long review. But I am curious what others thought of the show and if you went to both, did you notice anything different in the shows. I thought Pete had a great energy level at the beach, and I wonder if it was the same or more or less in Philly. I think indoor places feed more energy back and forth where at the beach it's really up to the people in the first couple of sections (and I was not that close). But I did sense good energy from him and really thought the show was incredible. I also feel some post show downers and wonder how I can get to another one. I have a sister who's going to see him in Vegas (how great would that be).

There were many differences in the 2 shows I saw. The energy level in Philly was much higher! Because I was so close to the stage at both venues, I'm sure I missed a lot of the lighting and dramatic effects, but by being so close I could see the expressions on each of the band member's faces, and see the looks that pass between the band-PG-support crew....In talking with some of the crew before the show, one of the ways they gauge the show experience on whether it's a successful show is by noticing if the audience energy is good, as far as dancing, standing up and participating, etc...Philly was on fire! PG had us with him at every moment, every song-we were in unison-and the energy was fantastic! I saw the sparkle in PG's eyes-and the spring in his step. Jones Beach show-the audience energy level was very low. The feeling that I had was that there was almost a sense of surprise and disappointment in the band at how little reaction there was to the music/songs. PG screwed up lyrics much more often at this show, and at several times there were looks of concern passing between band members, and support crew. Something that I found impressive at Jones Beach was that the band sort of seem to rally together more, as the audience seemed less engaged. Towards the end of the show, during 'In Your Eyes' someone in the front passed out cardboard cut outs of PG/Genesis-bat shaped with picture from Watcher of the Skies-on sticks-there had to be about 40 of them passed through the 1st and 2nd rows. PG gave a little smile, but I'm not sure he was really that amused. Someone kept trying to hand him one, and he refused to take it. PG sounded great at both shows, the band sounded great. I like to be actively involved in the music, singing, dancing, spinning, etc....so the energy in Philly was much more my style. I hate sitting, so felt frustrated with the audience situation in NY.

THanks Ela, it confirms the feeling after watching any and each of the Philly show vids, a great moment it seems ...... ,

Hi Again, Lunies! Thanks to all for reading . . . as I had said, this wasn't meant to be a blow-by-blow account or review of the show, but it was so much more than this for me -- it's been a long, long time since I've shared some things here with lunies and I just wanted to do it now while I am in that frame of mind, I suppose. So, thanks again for reading. Now, as far as reviews of the show goes (and in this case, of the two shows -- Philly and NY), I really must say that Laura really put it very nicely -- perhaps even more politically correct than I ever could, so I'll add very little here to her comments. Laredo -- I agree with you -- this was a superb show from PG and band and I, too, enjoyed the segments and the transition from each part. I still keep commenting on the fact that PG's voice is so strong -- meanwhile, I continue to lose my voice after the show -- need to get some lessons from him, I guess! Okay, here's a bit of a review of the shows from my perspective -- it's not a criticism of anyone -- not of PG, the band, the fans, the place, but it's just my simple, honest opinion -- basically worthless to anyone but me, so no harm done, yeah? As mentioned earlier, Philly was absolutely electric!!! I'll admit that I'm a bit biased in my opinion of Philly shows, but you must know that I have seen PG perform in several places -- NJ, NY, DC, UK -- and some of the time, those other venues have proven to be just as great -- but I always enjoy a Philly show because of the fans complete, brutal honesty for things -- if they love you, they really, really love you, but if you fuck up, they will be the first to let you know, but will be forgiving and carry on loving you. It's difficult to describe, but it really is how it is. I've heard that many up and coming performers feel as if they're going to be successful if they can please the Philly crowd -- it's definitely a very "critical" venue to perform. I'm always happy for PG to be in Philly -- he's very much loved there and it shows. As Laura mentioned, she and I ended up sharing some space (stage front) for most of the show -- it was just easier to stay in one place, rather than return to our seats only to be forced up on our feet again -- so, there we were, standing at stage front and even when there were a few moments when some folks were arguing over seats, security handled it and then advised us who were standing that if the people sat down, we'd have to go back to our seats -- no problem -- except for @ 3 people in the center section, first few rows, people stood all night long -- seriously, all night long . . . even during Mercy Street, during Don't Give Up. It was such an amazing show. I would turn around every now and then to be sure I wasn't blocking anyone's view and saw that the entire floor section were standing . . . all . . . night . . . long. Needless to say, PG and the band definitely felt that energy -- it was noticeable in everything they did. In Philly still . . . I remember PG mentioning that he had "fuck-up number 1" happen -- yet, if he hadn't mentioned it, I don't think a sould would have noticed -- he's his worst critic. I don't think there was ever a fuck-up number 2 in Philly. Moving on to Jones' Beach -- it was a most gorgeous day and evening and night. I am not a fan of outdoor venues, never have been, but if I must choose an outdoor venue it would be this type of venue as opposed to a stadium. Laura and I had a chance to sit together in the center orch, row 2, after a man had an extra tix and was willing to give me the other. I chose, instead, to take the seat that I had in Orchestra B (left-center) -- it was a great seat, a few rows back and on the aisle -- perfect! It allowed me to be able to see the stage a bit more, something I wanted to. It also allowed me to be in the center of things and was close enough to the stage to still have a great time. I had a great time and thought the band were wonderful -- really into it and seemed to be having some fun on stage. Although I was sitting in basically the same section as in Philly, there was something so very different about this audience -- barely anyone stood . . . ever! The crowd was definitely mixed with PG fans and many who were there, but didn't seem to be into it. The 3 people in my section standing for certain songs were the lady behind me (who, incidentally is from Chicago and will attend Chicago's show; had been to Philly and really loved it there), myself and the woman in front of me . . . that's it! So, while in Philly, @ 3 people sat most of the show, at Jones' Beach @ 3 people stood for some songs (in my section). While standing, I noticed in the center section that there was a small group of people standing and I thought cool, they're getting into it. Turns out that it was just a group of very drunk, obnoxious people who were disrupting the section. Before I continue, please note that I absolutely agree that it depends on where you're sitting -- I've heard reports from others who have a completely different perspective on it -- so again, no harsh criticism here, just an observation. As far as the band and PG noticing -- hell yes! The front audience are the people who help to get the spark going and the band really feeds off of that. As smooth as PG is with things (and he is), his Gabrielese was the worst I've ever heard it -- there comes a point where it's not enjoyable to hear him fucking up the words so much -- and I lost count. I could sense that he was "off" by the apparent lack of enthusiasm by so many in the front. Let me say this here to clarify something -- Jones' Beach had security sitting at the top of the aisles at stage front -- preventing anyone from even thinking about dancing in the aisles, so again, that probably had something to do with it all. In the beginning of the show, I could hear the crowd behind me -- sounded very enthusiastic and I was happy for that . . . then I realized that everyone was yelling about turning down the lights (something which I think PG needs to reconsider -- perhaps he's waiting too long to turn down the lights and people don't get it). As loud as that crowd was about the lights . . . I never heard that same roar any more in the show. Sad, really. All in all, both shows were excellent in terms of sound, music, performance, etc., so I'm happy I saw both. One thing that Laura mentioned the other night is that for some, this is the only show they'll see, so if that's the case, it was an awesome show to see and hopefully your section was really into it. I do know that I will not buy the Encore cd for the Jones' Beach show -- don't really want to hear all the gabrielese. I still have another show to see -- I'll be sure to enjoy and since it'll be the last show of the tour, I have no doubt that it'll be great and electric! Kind regards to all,

Thanks for the review Pat. Off to the Chicago show tomorrow...oh wait, it's after midnight....so it's today! Woot! I plan to stand. Perhaps I need to pump up the people at the preshow so that they know that we must stand, Peter wants it/needs it (or he'll be at a loss for words.. lol ) Cheers Pat!

Beaker -- Have a GREAT show!!! It is what you make it, you know! True story -- on Friday night, Laura and I chatted with those around us to go over the rules -- there was no question about what was expected of us In fact, one man in Laura's row was explaining the rules to everyone as they came into the rows . . . "these two ladies are "spinners" -- they're going to get up and spin during Secret World. You must make room for them at the end of the row, etc." It was in fun and honestly, it makes for a fun crowd. In the row behind me were several guys -- old PG fans but had not seen him in a long time. At some point, a man came walking up -- very, very loud and almost drunk at that point -- he had been to the VIP soundcheck, dinner (and drinks, obviously ). Well, it is commonly known (to me, anyway) that there can be 30,000 people in the venue and that one or two special someones always sit near me. I spot them early on (having done event security for many years, I'm actually very good at knowing what is going on around me at all times), I keep my eye on them because I know for a fact that he/they will become my problem people -- profiling, yes, but I'm just protecting myself from having to tell them to "SHUT THE F*** UP!" during the best parts of the show! So, the men behind me told me that he was sitting in their row -- I thought they were joking -- they were not, but the man was just super excited, equally as drunk and I told the woman next to me to take his photo because he was our problem child . Honestly, I think if I had stayed in my seat for the show, he would have become a problem, but I never had to worry about it -- Laura and I just stood at stage front (once I got past a man body slamming me ). It's just as well. Again, I now think that having the security staff sit at the top of the aisle really prevented anyone from wanting to get up on their feet. Have a most wonderful show tonight Beaker (and Zen and all!). I look forward to your reviews! Kind regards to all

* My thoughts are scattered here (what else is new?) . . . in saying that I think having the security staff sitting in the aisles -- that was at Jones' Beach, not Philly. Philly surprised me in that they allowed us to be in the aisles a bit -- this really is a big security no-no but I'm glad to know that they (security) was able to be present without having to sit/stand at each aisle. Hopefully all the other venues will do that.

great review Pat thanks ! and enjoy equally your future show.

Thanks, LR! As I've often said, I'm not really very good at writing reviews -- I do not even keep track of which song is played when -- therefore, I often try to get a set list afterwards. In Philly, one of my security guard friends called me over at the end and I heard him say, "Do you want to sell this?" I came closer to him and asked, "Sell what????" . . . He actually had asked me, "Do you want a set list?" We both laughed -- Hell, yeah, I want a set list to sell! (Only kidding, I don't sell or trade anything PG -- it's all mine or it's yours if I give it to you as a gift -- that's just me, though). As biased as I am about Philly (my hometown, of course!), I do think that the final show in Virginia will be wonderful, so I will give an honest review of the show after I settle back into my normal life again. I believe I've been to the Patriot Center before -- I did see PG's Growing Up Tour in Washington, DC and am not sure if this is the same place. I'll recognize it when I see it, if it is. As I've said before, this show is such a Peter Gabriel show -- the PG I know and love with his band who really rock!!!

Bumping this up because I have more to add later.