Wow, easily one of the best concerts they've performed recently
While it was a little bit shorter than to be expected, the reason being that the band jammed out more than they had originally planned, there were a vast majority of great epic jams to be had during this concert. DMB got the crowd going with "What Would You Say" and then shifted into "#41" which was stellar, although the "Everyday" outro has kind of lost it's luster as of late--if you're going to do that song, just play the full out "#36/Everyday" don't mix it in with a song as soothing as "#41." The centerpiece of the show was an over 20-minute rendition of "Seek Up," which is one of the many surprises that DMB had planned for this tour. It was obvious that the newer fans present weren't quite able to appreciate the extensive jam--not to mention that they were even playing such a rarely heard piece-- as some chose to sit down, but both Butch Taylor (keys) and Carter Beauford (drums) shined on this piece. The second highlight, and quite possibly the one of most importance, was the "American Baby Intro" which has really taken a life of its own since its original conception on the album Stand Up. It's incredible beauty comes from how the song manages to be both expansive yet simplistic, as the root of the song is effectively four notes. Dave Matthews voice perfectly matches the passion that lies within the playing of his bandmates as he eventually screams out the lyrics to the intro "She said, a hundred times/She said, a thousand miles" to the point that he turned completely red while doing it.
As stated before, "American Baby Intro" has truly evolved to the point that it's hardly an introduction, but a song all on its own that should be a DMB staple for some time to come. This song was appropriately bridged into "Dreamgirl" which was probably at its best at this show-- it truly has come along way from the original live versions as well. Butch Taylor and Stefan Lessard do an excellent introduction to the song, and the band has finally figured out a way to build on the song without completely losing the flavor of the piece. "Jimi Thing," while almost always expected to be good, was particularly well done because Butch Taylor was given the opportunity to have a good five minute solo where he also scatted along, and combine that with some great drumwork from Carter Beauford and you've got another sure winner. The encore was perfect, as Dave and Carter performed "The Christmas Song," a perfect song for such an intimate arena like Assembly Hall, and then of course finished off with an incredibly energized version of "Ants Marching."
The band as a whole was playing with so much energy that they probably could've played another half hour at least, and I really wish they had. Either way though, it's great to see that these guys are well-rested and back up to top form, and it should be great to see them again come the spring/summer tour.
★★★★★
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