It was nice meeting you all in person before the show, albeit briefly. I lurked on here for years before finally registering and posting regularly. I really should have gotten involved earlier, you all were definitely having fun the first 3 rows!
Doing a mental count while waiting in line, I realized that last night was my 20th show since 1997. That was the first time since since 2004 where I've heard new songs for the first time at a show. It was exciting having a sense of surprise and wonder at a show, it's been awhile. Certainly one of the most unique Ben shows I've seen over the years. The chronological setlist "storytellers" show in Kalamazoo last year would certainly be up there. The first Ben Folds and a Piano tour in 2003 was pretty novel at the time, as were the pre-Silverman solo shows in 2004 where Ben played bass. That was my wife's 11th show and she said it was probably her favorite, but with a Masters of Music I expected her to dig yMusic.
Thank you for requesting Selfless!!! That's my favorite Ben song and it's a shame it's so rarely played. Absolutely beautiful. Grateful to have heard DCYP too. I think that was the first time I'd heard that live since 1999. Another beautiful rarity in Ben's catalog. I knew it would probably be a subdued show given the new material and the setting, but it did feel like a very ballad-heavy setlist. Thought Ben's voice was quieter than I'd heard in awhile, but also more accurate in the higher register than I remember.
Had great fans next to us and behind us, but my sole criticism from the night were 3 fans sitting 2 rows in front of us. Whenever the fans in front of them would start singing they would all look at each other, roll their eyes and snicker. Seriously, have you never been to a Ben Folds show before? People sing.
Anyone going to Park West tonight? Curious to see how the show will change going from a big cavernous church to a traditional rock club. Last time I saw Ben at Park West was 5/3/99 and Flemming & John opened. Man, that makes me feel old...