April 6, 2005 - Los Angeles, California, USA - Staples Center

Wow. I went to the show at the Pond last Friday, and this LA show blew it out of the water. For starters, the sound at Staples seems to be clearer, and un-muffled, and the band were more relaxed on stage. Very happy they played 'Electric Co.' and 'The Ocean' 2 gems from Boy. To be able to see them do 'Electric Co.' live is worth the price of admission right from the start. Anyone out there who was at the Pond show on Friday? Others may not agree, but I think the band finally nailed down the cohesive performance they are capable of at Staples. The Friday Pond show set seemed top heavy, uneven in places. Bono spoke to NME about the tour almost not happening at all, and with 6 shows down in a long tour, they are getting into their touring prime now. Excellent show, great sound, alot of interaction, and energy. Thanks Chris for posting the great Photos!

The show was not so great. I've seen them every tour since War, and this has got to be one of the worst. It seems as though they recycle the same show over and over again, and throw a few new songs in the mix. I will say that it was nice to hear The Electric Co, Running to stand Still, and 40, but some great songs are left out every tour. Here are some to name a few;

Surrender,The Unforgetable Fire, Red Hill Mining Town, One Tree Hill etc.

I understand that they have to please the crowd with the hits, but I feel that with parking, drinks, and tickets being so expensive, It's not worth going to another show. Also the sound at the Staples Center is terrible.

My two cents.

I too went to the show at the POnd Friday night and thought it was terrible! The sound was off, the order in which the songs were played seemed strange, and Bono judt did not seem like he was into it! I was really diasapointed with the tour... and then I went to the staples show last night; it was amazing! The sound was great the mix was awesome... and Bono really had energy. Needless to say I'll be forking out more $$ in the fall when they come back around.

Chris, great pictures! do you have anymore to post or email?? I thought the show was incredible and being in the ellipse was a definite highlight!

Terry,
Chris posted the original setlist, and i found these pictures on reuters and posted them...check back here for more possible pictures..

Hi Everyone,

Would someone who went to one of the Staples Center shows be able to tell me if the venue allowed you to bring a camera inside? Thanks for your help! I'm looking forward to seeing the guys!

Jon - yes, you can bring your camera in. They only do not allow video cameras, but still cameras are acceptable. Enjoy!

I didn't bring a camera myself, but I saw plenty of flashes, and a disposable camera that Bono grabbed from a fan and took a picture of himself with.

OH MAN! i never been too a concert before and im glad that my first one was U2! i went to the L.A. show my hometown! and i wanted to say ive never seen anything so amazing! All the songs were great even my favorit "where the streets have no name" i will always remember it, and the band, for being great song writers but also good role-moldes and humanitarians! they have inspired me and i never felt so good in one day!!!

amazing! thats all! amazing! great band! heading over to san joses to catch them! cant wait!

hey guys, i went to the show and it was amazing, well especially where i was standing from....u can take a look on the last pic..im standing there in the black wit the camera in one hand and reaching out for bono.....all i can say is amazing