A fitting farewell from the U2 boys to Tokyo, unfortunately lacking a warm up band and offering a set shorter than any of theirs I've seen before they still performed excellently, from the Japanese flag waving introduction of City of Blinding Lights through to the audio-visual assault of Vertigo at the end. Though it did look like Bono narrowly avoided a mishap with some pyrotechnics while wandering around on all fours blindfolded, a swift move from one of the roadies helped him out. They were gracious in their apologies for the time between visits and provided a solid set, with The First Time, Sometimes You Can't Make it on Your Own and the second rendition of Vertigo being the highlights (for me) of a highly lit show. Although their opening barrage of songs was outstanding and the often conservative response of the Japanese audience was completely disregarded in favour of an arena wide atmosphere of pure enjoyment. The two new songs were well executed and despite the slightly hurried feel of the two hour set they suited the slightly more intimate surroundings of an arena as opposed to the broad pomp and acoustic unfriendliness of the stadiium.
Outstanding. Wish I was going to Honolulu now.....

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