This was a solid show. By my estimation it's very close to a 4/5, so I am a little surprised to see the lack of love for it amongst the reviews I have read elsewhere.

While it opened with a great tribute to Frenchie, the overall tone of this show and some of the song selections more fittingly appeared to be a tribute to James. Trey seemed a bit more contemplative, as one might expect in the first show after losing a close friend and fellow band mate, and so it naturally followed that the energy was lower. But everything was beautifully played, and there were very few missteps.

Also hard to nitpick a show with 4 jam chart worthy songs (Carini, Ruby Waves, Tweezer, Light). I’ve had the privilege of hearing some great Carini work over the last few years, but this one was pipin’ hot coming straight out of the gate, ranking up there with the Bakers Dozen version for me. Prince Caspian was the first of the smoother melodies on the night that may have been lower energy but worth a re-listen. Ruby Waves was a solid venture and seemed sustained for just the right length of time before transitioning into a set closing Character Zero.

When set 2 opened with Set Your Soul Free, it had all the makings of an extended jam, but of course they flipped the script and blasted into an awesome Tweezer that was in perpetual motion for 20+ before sinking back into a serene quartet of songs. Light was excellent and cathartic for all who were present, and Slave to the Traffic Light was also worth a listen.

So, did I enjoy it as much as the other nights from this wonderful weekend? No. Swayed more than I would have liked to. But it was a meaningful show live, and I have already enjoyed re-listening to it.