Bre Kopson bre_kopson@hotmail.com REVIEW: My boyfriend Doug and I arrived at the State Theatre in Detroit for the show around 5:30pm. Radio stations were everywhere, handing out food and water, which was really nice considering it was about 80* and we were right in the sun. So we waited, we mingled, we sat. I turned my head for a second, and saw John walk off the bus, and get back on. Just a glimpse though. The doors opened at 7pm and they let us in. We had to empty pockets and open purses, to make sure we didn't have cameras. I of course, snuck mine in. Ladies, if you'd like to learn my secret, drop me an e-mail: bre_kopson@hotmail.com Even though we were about 1/2 way back in the line, we still managed to get down to the floor and the third row. I was so exstatic at this point I was shaking. I had previously seen the Goo's as my first concert August 18, 1998 at Pine Knob, and had awful seats. So to be 3 feet from the stage was quite the thrill. Sensefield was right on time, as they took the stage around 7:45pm. They seemed to really be having a lot of fun, because the crowd was very receptive. I sang along and the lead singer pointed at me a few times. They did play a good set. My only complaint was that towards the end, the lead singer decided to stage dive into 6 rows of women, who did not want to even attempt to hold him up. And even before they left the stage, the crowd surged forward. Personal space was pretty much eliminated, but I was fine. It took the bandaids about 45 to clear Sensefield's set and set up the Goo's. I have never seen a better stage setup. The black velvet curtains lined with disco balls, and the rotating lighting system was simply amazing. You could always see the band, which isn't always easy at a small theatre venue. They came charging on with Big Machine, and everyone screamed and sang along. They looked a bit surprised at the fact that we all knew the words, but that just kicked them into high gear. Robby never stopped smiling, or moving for that matter. The funny faces were great, especially when he'd make direct contact with you and sing, while you sang along. He looked great as well! For the fashion concerned, Robby wore black leather pants with a blue USS ARMY t-shirt. Mike was really into the crowd too, which made me really happy because it always seems like he's over shadowed. From what I remember, he was wearing jeans and a green t-shirt. And then there was John. The man amazes me, and not just by his charming good looks. Every word, every note, he sang/played with passion and just fed it to the audience. Like he really enjoyed playing for us. He'd make eye contact, smile during flashes, and made sure he went all over the stage and called up to the balcony. It was so amazing to be so close to such a talented and inspiring person, I truly was in awe and blushing the whole evening. He wore greeny/tanish khakis, and a white wife beater with a small bird on the front and the back read something like, "Live nature, love life." He joked about sweating and shaking his head with his wet hair, and ran off stage and grabbed a hat. At one point he stopped between songs and Robby joined in on ribbing on two people in the audience who did not know each other, but were pretty darn close. It was cute. John playing matchmaker. I don't remember the set list exactly, but I do know that they played, Long way down (with 1000 words which was sooo beautiful), Big Machine, Slide, Think About Me, Iris, Sympathy, Burning Up, Lucky Star, What A Scene, Smash, Tucked Away, Truth Is A Whisper, Broadway, Black Balloon, Dizzy, January Friend, Naked, Flat Top, Fallin' Down...and they ended the show with American Girl. I was so happy and satisfied. The fx's were great, they sang with deep passion, and just rocked out having fun. It was the most fun I've ever had. I didn't want the night to end. My favorite songs of the evening were Lucky Star, Think About Me, and 1000 words. Definately the best concert experience ever. Afterwards I went to the lobby where I bought some awesome things at great prices. T-shirts were just $25, Hoodies were $35, and Sticker/Button Packs were only $5. If you get a chance to see them on this tour, go. You will have the best time. You might leave without a voice from screaming, but you also leave with memories that will last a lifetime. :) I also took a few pictures, so when I get them developed I'll scan and send.