As an avid concert goer, I'm not usually waiting for a show months and months in advance, but this was an exception. I purchased my tickets back in February, and have been pacing in my mind for several months. Well, the big day finally came and my drive to the Palace was well worth it. U2's Veritigo tour will be a landmark for my concert diary.
I waited through Gavin Rosdale's new band with anticipation, and after an hour and a half in my seat, the time to stand hit me like a ton of bricks. nothing could have prepared me for what was about to happen. The lights dimmed and music sung through the arena. After several minutes of anticipation, the entire crowd came to its feet as dazzling lights began to stream from the ceiling. We were truly in the song and the stage spots errupted to show U2 with Bono looking towards the heavens. "The City of Blinding Lights" came alive. Even today, after listening to that song several times, I cannot, nor would I want to, shake this image from my head.
The band followed with Vertigo and Elevation, which were the perfect compliment to eachother, and kept the entire crowd on its feet. I won't continue to overwhelm you with all of the details, but needless to say, the vibe of the entire show was intoxicating.
Other highlights included a mini-set from "Boy" which was delightful, the anthem "Sometimes You Can't Make it on Your Own" that featured supercool lighting effects with "the lone-walker", and the reading of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that was accompanied by some of the bands more well known political/war songs.
The encores were incredible! With or Without You spotlighted a woman from the crowd bathed in Bono's arms, which will most likely be part of her memories forever. Finally, Yahweh and 40 sent the all of us home with a piece of nostalgia that will not soon be forgotten. I had never seen U2 before tonight, and have been contemplating of several hours whether or not to write this. Obviously I have decided to do so, but with one purpose: Do not miss this band. Go to whatever lenghts you need to, but make sure that an opportunity to see these amazing performers does not pass you by; They will leave you breathless and euphoric beyond any doubt.

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