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On what must be around my 40th time seeing Elvis, I was particularly looking forward to this series of show, as 1.) it brought back very fond memories of the Coward Brothers shows that toured Australia in the mid 1980's, and 2,) having just picked up guitar again after all these years, gave me an opportunity to concentrate on the simple melodies without distractions such as Steve's sublime organ work.
After Thursday night's show I was very disappointed. It did nothing for me. It was an OK show, not a great one. The song list was poor ("She Handed Me A Mirror"? please), the audience flat, and he didn't touch the Martin guitar!
So I ventured back on Saturday night with trepidation. But god am I glad I did. Front row centre, the only thing between Elvis and me was that damn music stand. And what a concert. A much better song selection. Two from King Of America (and the perfect showcase for this great album). Some rarities ("In Another Room," "Basement Kiss"), some rarely played oldies ("Motel Matches") and great covers ("You've Got To Hide Your Love Away")
He was, as usual these days, very happy, chatting with the crowd, usual funny stories, and the crowd responded, far more enthusiastic than the previous show. He just kept playing and playing, over 2½ hours, and a very long song list.
Acoustics still weren't great (but better than Thursday night) and what genius thought it was a good idea to backlight into the audience? Elvis isn't here to see us.
In the back lane there were very few people, and Elvis was quite chatty, he said he will be back when someone invites him. Elvis, consider yourself invited!!!
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