The Best (and Worst) Opening Acts

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I'm writing this as I listen to Muse's "Resistance" and even now, a month after I saw them open for U2, I can still remember hearing the first beats of their music as they took the stage. The sound was loud, strong, and perfect for the 360 tour. They won me over and I went out the very next day and brought their latest album.

This got me thinking about other bands that have opened for U2 throughout the decades. Which ones do I remember most? What one do I wish I could forget?

P.J. Harvey blew me away during the ATYCLB tour. I still can't believe that strong voice comes out of such a tiny body. I am now a big fan. Her album, "Stories From the City, Stories From the Sea", remains one of my all time favorite albums. Her more recent work has not captivated me as much, but I will never forget seeing her live.

During the Vertigo tour, I was unfortunate enough to see Kings of Leon. I wish I hadn't because I think that their songs, "Sex on Fire" and "Use Somebody" are two of the sexiest songs ever written. They were disappointing live. I had seats for this concert and chose to leave behind Kings of Leon in order to buy souvenirs. I purposely waited for their performance to be over before re-entering the arena. On my way back in, I passed some people coming out. "Are they (Kings of Leon) over?" I asked. One person replied, "Yes, thank the merciful God."

I missed seeing Garbage open during ATYCLB because they cancelled due to one of the band members being sick. Instead, U2 found a replacement with some band whose name I can't remember. I do remember that they were a bunch of old guys that I had never heard of.

During Pop the band opened with some group that had a song with a line about Scooby Snacks. Scooby Snacks is the only thing I remember, and I only remember it because I absolutely love Scooby Doo.

Of course, not every opening act is going to be a hit. And I am sure that there are people out there that hated P.J. Harvey but loved Kings of Leon. I can't imagine anyone not liking Muse.

I'm looking forward to more great opening acts in 2010.

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i skipped PJ Harvey - stayed at the bar until time for u2. also did my best to skip dashboard confessional during vertigo. did catch the end of their set and was not impressed. while kanye west was on stage i left to smoke. i did stay and listen to snow patrol - they were pretty good. - ah, now who will they be with next summer?

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About this Entry

This page contains a single entry by Brenda published on November 2, 2009 2:48 AM.

Mick Jagger Joins U2, Metallica, Aretha Franklin at the Rock Hall's Epic 25th Anniversary Bash was the previous entry in this blog.

Pitchfork Interviews: Brian Eno is the next entry in this blog.

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