Summer Concerts I - Introduction

I posted a list of summer concerts earlier, so I thought that I would follow up with some short comments. These are not really reviews as such, just thoughts about the shows.

I attend two ballpark shows in two weeks. Generally, I like these shows, because they are general admission. You can sit in the stands or stand on the field or just walk around if you want. You can meet folks and talk with them or just hang out on your own. The shows tend to be family affairs, with children and grandchildren in attendance. With a few exceptions, pretty much anywhere in the park is a good place to watch the show.

These shows do have a couple of potential draw backs, however. First, the parks have rules about what you can bring through the gates. Check the rules and plan to travel light. Second, all the ballpark concessions are open, which means a lot of folks are drinking beer and more exotic alcoholic drinks and walking around the stadium. Probably only the truly hardy and loyal fans want to get down right in front of the stage for two or three hours. Also, weather can be an issue. Finally, ballpark acoustics really not ideal and for those who get right down in front, take care of your hearing, as volume levels are likely to be loud.

The posts that follow on Wilco and Conor Oberst and The Bob Dylan Show (with Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp and The Wiyos).

Paste's Definitive All-Time Top 10 Rock 'n' Roll Documentaries List

Paste magazine has taken a shot at listing the top ten rock n' roll documentaries of all time. Note that Paste has excluded what it views as pure concert films. Thus, Martin Scorcese Last Waltz does not make the list. I think, however, that his PBS documentary on Bob Dylan, No Direction Home should have made the list.

Take a look and let me know if you have any additions.