Concert Review: Karlsruhe, Germany - May 22, 2009
Andrea Lucas:
Hello, did nobody else write a Karlsruhe review so far? Or did I miss it? Hm, just in case I might write one. Finally there’s time for me to catch up on everything, before later today I’m going to pick up Chris W at Stuttgart airport for our next concert trips. Many people in Germany had last Friday off as the Thursday was a holiday. Of course my company wasn’t closed, but my nice colleague Markus said he would manage on his own, so I could leave early. My friend Karin was already waiting at my place. I had given her and her husband Werner a key, so they needn’t wait outside. After a few last minute preparations, Karin and I started the short journey to Karlsruhe. This was the concert which was closest to my home, just around 80 km. Still we needed 1 ½ hours until we arrived at our hotel. After checking in, we went out for a stroll around the town. The weather was beautiful with sunshine, but not too hot. We visited the Schlosspark and climbed the tower there for a good view over the town (121 steps + 37 more to the top of the tower). It was lovely and back down we had a nice meal at a nearby restaurant. For going to the concert we took the tram and as we arrived early, we enjoyed a bit of sunshine before going into the Europahalle. At the entrance they asked for cameras, but I never put mine in the handbag… Still I only took a few pictures, as security was “on alert” all the time. Often almost chasing people taking pictures. Our seats were in row 2 on the right side with a good view. The songs were the same as before, no surprises here. Unfortunately Chris has already dropped one of my all-time favourites: “The Same Sun”… I still love the start of the concert with “Last Night” and other favourites are “Turn, Turn, Turn” and “Leather On My Shoes” – this one is sooo great with the band. I am glad they are still doing this song. “The Long And Winding Road” and “Without You” are quite different as at the recent orchestra concerts in England, but really good. I always have loved the quiet “session part” with the band members and Chris sitting in the middle of the stage. Nice to have that one back too. Though I have to say that I am not that keen on “All Along The Watchtower” and “Moonlight And Vodka”. Would be nice if they would add another song at this part, well, asking me… Again the audience was enthusiastic right from the start and people ran towards the front before “Lady In Red”. It was very hot inside the venue and after the break Chris came back with another shirt on. I’d wish I could have changed my clothes too… I did join the crowd for the dancing part, but after “Ship To Shore” it was just too hot and too much pushing, with a tall guy almost blocking my view, so I went back to my seat. It was much better there. “Africa” is a song I love at this part of the show. To be honest it’s not among my favourites on the CD, but live with the band it’s just great!!! For a change Chris did not get loads of gifts and flowers. He only got roses from a lady from France – as he told us. He also tried to pronounce Karlsruhe correctly, a bit difficult for an English speaking person, but he did really well. After the show Karin and I took a tram back to the hotel and we both took a shower before we went down for a drink. We were joined by Anya and her husband. It was really nice to talk and we had a good time before we finally went to bed. Have a nice evening, Andrea