05-04-07 Berkeley, CA - Greek Theatre

[The DARK]

6. I Will Be There When You Die

[smiley=2vrolijk_08.gif]

[bridget]

I think it was Mark Twain who said, "If I'd had more time, I would've written a shorter letter." True. This is probably gonna be long 'cause I'm just gonna throw everything I remember at y'all. We haven't had a show in a while, I think some color commentary is called for.

Berkeley is a lovely campus and the Greek is a lovely venue. Truly not a bad seat in the place and deceptively small for 8000 people – I'd guess there were 6K or so there last night. Sounded amazing but we were freaking freezing. I had a scarf, polar fleece, the whole deal, and we just shivered and shivered.

So I thought I was up on my indie rock or whatever you're supposed to call it, but if you would've asked me on Thurs. who was more popular – Bright Eyes or MMJ, I would've said MMJ hands down. Um. This Conor guy has quite the legion of young female fans. I... had no idea. There were lots of "Conor! I love you!"s and I want to have your baby!"s. Anyways - Jim came out when the sun wasn't quite all the way down, which kinda sucked because the crowd wasn't really in show-mode. I don't know if Jim's missing his hair to hide behind or not, but he wore his sunglasses the whole time and it was pretty dark:) He played some old faves and his voice sounded amazing in that venue – it just flooded the place, washed over you. Gorgeous as always.

A couple songs in, he brought out "Snowy Bramble – all the way from Nashville, TN. Snowy Bramble, everyone." To my delight, "Snowy" was in fact Carl. I gotta say, funnily enough, there were a lot of mis-notes and mis-cues between them, but it still sounded great, and honestly, it's nice to see that even after two years of touring those songs, it's not just a mindless rolling out of the set for them. However, it was around the time Carl came out that these two jackasses in the back of the pit started having handstand contests and breakdancing contests, and at one point a head-patting/stomach rubbing display – you would not believe how rude. I kept hearing these random bursts of applause in the middle of the songs and I looked back and this guy and girl were putting on a show for the section directly behind them, who would then applaud – every 15 seconds or so throughout Bermuda Hwy. I was... dumbfounded. We were up in the seats and I wanted to walk down there and calmly, kindly, point out how disrespectful they were being and explain to them who it was who was singing for them at that moment, 'cause I don't think they got it. I'm 26 but I kept picturing how upset my mother would be if I ever did anything like that while someone – anyone – was up on a stage performing. Anyways, I think Jim saw it 'cause thru much of Gideon he sang with his right hand over his heart, left hand behind his back, and then he'd stand on one foot – showing off his balance, and then he'd step back and switch feet, balance. Good on him:) Got the message across without really addressing it. The rudeness pretty much stopped after that and Carl left for the last couple songs.

I don't want to say for sure – but did we hear a new song? I came home and tried to google the lyrics I remembered and I couldn't find them anywhere. All I remember is "Glory. Glory. Glory. Let me follow you?/I will follow you?" It was really gorgeous – and a perfect song for just Jim 'cause it was all about his voice and just a bit of guitar, but it was right before the Sam Cooke cover, so I wouldn't be surprised if it was a cover. Either way – stunning. And that was it. The set was over in a hurry and then Gillian came out when it was all the way dark and there were lights and everything and it felt like a different show. Gillian was fantastic as well and for whatever reason, the Bright Eyes crowd was much more familiar with her songs.

At this point, we were so cold, we thought we'd stay for a song or two of Bright Eyes and hit the road – I've never seen 'em live before, but I've never been able to really sink into any of their/his records. Color me pleasantly surprised. We were so impressed with the first couple songs, we couldn't leave. I think I'd heard too many third-hand accounts about Conor that made me think I wouldn't like him. You shouldn't pre-judge people – I can't believe I still need reminding of that, but he was lovely and talented – all 15 or so of the people on stage were. String section, flutes, two drummers – it was a trip. Gillian joined 'em for a couple songs.

Now, for all the boys reading this, this is gonna get a little girly. I can't help it. Avert your eyes if you must. Conor warned everyone that there was a strict cut-off and they were running out of time and they were just gonna run thru as many songs as they could there at the end. He called Jim out, and Jim walked out and picked up the guitar waiting there for him, only to find that the strap was crazily too tight – couldn't even get his head thru, so while the other 10 or so musicians got set, he tried a few things and then just unhooked it and was ready to go – I'll just play like this, no problem, what are we playin. Conor noticed this and kinda smiled at him like "hey, we've got time" and he walked back and grabbed the un-hooked strap and adjusted it fixed it up right. I say this is a girly detail because I dated a football player in highschool and – no kidding – the reason I got a crush on him was because he was always the guy who'd shove his teammate's shoulder pads back under their jerseys after a tough play, knock 'em on the helmet, let's go. It's nice, it's genuine – that's a good friend – type of gesture.

Jim took the center mic and was the only one singing for the first song out – though I have no idea what the song was, but Gillian was out there too with David Rawlings and Carl – there was a lot going on. Jim had his hood up over his head with a pink flower behind one ear. After that song, Jim was still having some guitar issues and Conor quick took off his guitar and they switched. And then Conor played a song and saw what he was talking about with the guitar cause Jim smiled and quick took of his guitar and they switched back and went right into the next song. And they rocked out pretty hard and Conor kinda went up and leaned against him at one point and I'll end the girliness here, but I'm describing this because so many musicians are so far up their own asses it's hard to watch, but these two clearly have genuine affection and respect for one another. It's nice. And then it was over and we stood and could barely feel our feet and we couldn't wait to get to the car to thaw out.

It was a fun night:) Looking back at this, I didn't describe much about the music. Hard to get across with words. I feel like with MMJ, it's  almost always trnascendent but it feels like a foggy, lovely dream, and then you're out in the parking lot and I can never find the words. So you're stuck with the stupid, unimportant details. Sorry:) Catch any of these artists whenever you can.

[lisaskye]

Lisaskye, nice to meet you!

Back at ya,  I loved your Timbuk2 bag.  thanks for getting the set list.  I luv you all.

Luv dawg

aka

Lisa Skye

[Ghosts_on_TV]

I think it was Mark Twain who said, "If I'd had more time, I would've written a shorter letter." True. This is probably gonna be long 'cause I'm just gonna throw everything I remember at y'all. We haven't had a show in a while, I think some color commentary is called for.

Berkeley is a lovely campus and the Greek is a lovely venue. Truly not a bad seat in the place and deceptively small for 8000 people – I'd guess there were 6K or so there last night. Sounded amazing but we were freaking freezing. I had a scarf, polar fleece, the whole deal, and we just shivered and shivered.

So I thought I was up on my indie rock or whatever you're supposed to call it, but if you would've asked me on Thurs. who was more popular – Bright Eyes or MMJ, I would've said MMJ hands down. Um. This Conor guy has quite the legion of young female fans. I... had no idea. There were lots of "Conor! I love you!"s and I want to have your baby!"s. Anyways - Jim came out when the sun wasn't quite all the way down, which kinda sucked because the crowd wasn't really in show-mode. I don't know if Jim's missing his hair to hide behind or not, but he wore his sunglasses the whole time and it was pretty dark:) He played some old faves and his voice sounded amazing in that venue – it just flooded the place, washed over you. Gorgeous as always.

A couple songs in, he brought out "Snowy Bramble – all the way from Nashville, TN. Snowy Bramble, everyone." To my delight, "Snowy" was in fact Carl. I gotta say, funnily enough, there were a lot of mis-notes and mis-cues between them, but it still sounded great, and honestly, it's nice to see that even after two years of touring those songs, it's not just a mindless rolling out of the set for them. However, it was around the time Carl came out that these two jackasses in the back of the pit started having handstand contests and breakdancing contests, and at one point a head-patting/stomach rubbing display – you would not believe how rude. I kept hearing these random bursts of applause in the middle of the songs and I looked back and this guy and girl were putting on a show for the section directly behind them, who would then applaud – every 15 seconds or so throughout Bermuda Hwy. I was... dumbfounded. We were up in the seats and I wanted to walk down there and calmly, kindly, point out how disrespectful they were being and explain to them who it was who was singing for them at that moment, 'cause I don't think they got it. I'm 26 and I kept picturing how upset my mother would be if I ever did anything like that while someone – anyone – was up on a stage performing. Anyways, I think Jim saw it 'cause thru much of Gideon he sang with his right hand over his heart, left hand behind his back, and then he'd stand on one foot – showing off his balance, and then he'd step back and switch feet, balance. Good on him:) Got the message across without really addressing it. The rudeness pretty much stopped after that and Carl left for the last couple songs.

I don't want to say for sure – but did we hear a new song? I came home and tried to google the lyrics I remembered and I couldn't find them anywhere. All I remember is "Glory. Glory. Glory. Let me follow you?/I will follow you?" It was really gorgeous – and a perfect song for just Jim 'cause it was all about his voice and just a bit of guitar, but it was right before the Sam Cooke cover, so I wouldn't be surprised if it was a cover. Either way – stunning. And that was it. The set was over in a hurry and then Gillian came out when it was all the way dark and there were lights and everything and it felt like a different show. Gillian was fantastic as well and for whatever reason, the Bright Eyes crowd was much more familiar with her songs.

At this point, we were so cold, we thought we'd stay for a song or two of Bright Eyes and hit the road – I've never seen 'em live before, but I've never been able to really sink into any of their/his records. Color me pleasantly surprised. We were so impressed with the first couple songs, we couldn't leave. I think I'd heard too many third-hand accounts about Conor that made me think I wouldn't like him. You shouldn't pre-judge people – I can't believe I still need reminding of that, but he was lovely and talented – all 15 or so of the people on stage were. String section, flutes, two drummers – it was a trip. Gillian joined 'em for a couple songs.

Now, for all the boys reading this, this is gonna get a little girly. I can't help it. Avert your eyes if you must. Conor warned everyone that there was a strict cut-off and they were running out of time and they were just gonna run thru as many songs as they could there at the end. He called Jim out, and Jim walked out and picked up the guitar waiting there for him, only to find that the strap was crazily too tight – couldn't even get his head thru, so while the other 10 or so musicians got set, he tried a few things and then just unhooked it and was ready to go – I'll just play like this, no problem, what are we playin. Conor noticed this and kinda smiled at him like "hey, we've got time" and he walked back and grabbed the un-hooked strap and adjusted it fixed it up right. I say this is a girly detail because I dated a football player in highschool and – no kidding – the reason I got a crush on him was because he was always the guy who'd shove his teammate's shoulder pads back under their jerseys after a tough play, knock 'em on the helmet, let's go. It's nice, it's genuine – that's a good friend – type of gesture.

Jim took the center mic and was the only one singing for the first song out – though I have no idea what the song was, but Gillian was out there too with David Rawlings and Carl – there was a lot going on. Jim had his hood up over his head with a pink flower behind one ear. After that song, Jim was still having some guitar issues and Conor quick took off his guitar and they switched. And then Conor played a song and saw what he was talking about with the guitar cause Jim smiled and quick took of his guitar and they switched back and went right into the next song. And they rocked out pretty hard and Conor kinda went up and leaned against him at one point and I'll end the girliness here, but I'm describing this because so many musicians are so far up their own asses it's hard to watch, but these two clearly have genuine affection and respect for one another. It's nice. And then it was over and we stood and could barely feel our feet and we couldn't wait to get to the car to thaw out.

It was a fun night:) Looking back at this, I didn't describe much about the music. Hard to get across with words. I feel like with MMJ, it's  almost always trnascendent but it feels like a foggy, lovely dream, and then you're out in the parking lot and I can never find the words. So you're stuck with the stupid, unimportant details. Sorry:) Catch any of these artists whenever you can.

That was great, thanks! 8-)

[Sherpa]

Thanks for the detailed report! I felt like i was there with you. We need more reports like that.

Thanks!

[lisaskye]

The night was exciting for me as it was my first time to the Berkeley Greek Theater. The venue is outdoors and a bit like a mini Redrocks in Denver.  
I was at the parking lot on top of the theater and heard Jim's melodic voice rise up in the air and up into the redwood trees of Northern California, I was floating off the ground.
We walked in and the stage is on our right with Jim there singing, we got there just after he began.   He was out there in a blue hoody and sporting the new hair cut.  I love it.  I love being able to see Jim's face. We moved on the floor next to the stage with everyone.   We were about 7th row back standing to the right of the stage.  We met Vespa chick while she was writing down the set list for the forum.  Thanks so much. I was so silly and did not bring my camera or camera phone.  I asked a young  guy to upload photos  to the forum, he said he was hearing Jim for the first time, nice.

Hopefully was so beautiful and I was dancing on the dance floors.
Nashville to Kentucky loved this one so much
I Will Be There When You Die what can you say?  
Gideon – I was the one singing loud in the 76th
Some song I don't know, about being a good neighbor I will call "Peace -  We think this is a NEW song.  Oh please Oh please let it be new.  
Bermuda Highway- " Don't let your silly dreams, fall in between the crack of the bed and the wall."  
Are there any better lyrics than these?  

This is where I brought out my lighter and torched it up.  I was the one that screamed "We love you Jim"   He smiled   ;)  and all the girls around me loved it and everyone was happy.  Everyone was smiling. The fans were there for you and Carl.  Yes , Carl looked great in his Brown Blazer sans the slide guitar.  
No omnichord like back in October last year at the Palace of fine arts.  All acoustic all of the time.  
Jim looks great and the sun glasses were keeping  the sun out.  The sunset on the stage was beautiful in the yellow and oranges of the California sun.   The Greek theater is an outdoor amphitheater that has tall Greek pillars rising up.  Jim commented on how happy he was to get the invitation from Bright eyes to play there.   It was just so pleasant.  The distractions that others described during the performance were not a bother to those of us that are in a trance while he is playing.  It is hard for me to take my eyes off of him.
He had a great professional performance that I was so glad to be a part of.  I am so happy  Jim and Carl came back to the bay area.  I agree, the Greek theater is an amazing venue for  MMJ.  http://facilities.calperfs.berkeley.edu/greek/

Well I have spent the day daydreaming about the concert.   It is amazing to hear that music live.  
Pinch me.  
Luv you guys ,    
Love Dawg

[LaurieBlue]

http://www.backdrifter.com/2007/05/05/bright-eyes-at-the-greek-theatre/

[vespachick]

The more my head clears and I think back, I don't think Jim did "Nashville to Kentucky"; my list is full of things I can't even read.  I wrote down "Kentucky" just before "I Will Be There", and I think that made me misread the list.  Some folks said there were only 10 songs which makes sense if you eliminate "Nashville."  That's what you get when you send a scattered-short-term-memory to do the job!

1. Anytime
2. It Beats For you
3. Dancefloors
4. Hopefully
5. Nashville to Kentucky
6. I Will Be There When You Die
7. Sept. Blues
8. Gideon - featuring "Snowy Bramble" (pics to follow tomorrow when I get home; and Jim was doing a robot/soldier impersonation that I think I got a pic of.)
9. Some song I don't know, about being a good neighbor I will call "Peace _____" (can't make out my scribble)
10. Bermuda Highway
11.  That's Heaven to Me

Here are some pictures I took which mostly serve to remind me that I need a new camera:
This is Jim doing his mindless soldier/robot dance thing to Gideon.

[LaurieBlue]

http://blogs.eastbayexpress.com/earbud/2007/05/dayafter_show_review_bright_ey.php

Jim James of My Morning Jacket delivered a soulful, sparse set early in the evening. When stripped of the celestial country sheen of My Morning Jacket, James' voice is his greatest asset. It soared through the warm open air, entering open windows and screen doors a mile away. Playing solo on the huge Greek Theatre stage, he looked tiny and sounded huge. An unforgettable highlight at the end of his set came from Z cut "Gideon," with its gorgeous plea to "liiiiiissssstennnnnn."

[Tahoe Kat]

This is where I brought out my lighter and torched it up.  I was the one that screamed "We love you Jim"   He smiled   ;)

Ahh, a memorable moment. Loved it! Had us girls right behind you also had lighters we'd have joined in with your torching. Thanks Lisa. Great show...great venue.

[DaFunkyPrecedent]

http://youtube.com/watch?v=9XkeygVKCH0

what is this song??? new? someone help inform us.  Cool footage on youtube btw.  

[CC]

http://youtube.com/watch?v=9XkeygVKCH0

what is this song??? new? someone help inform us.  Cool footage on youtube btw.  

that's a John Prine song. All The Best.

[lisaskye]

thanks to LaurieBlue yesterday here is more about the performance

Jim James, the lead singer and guitarist for My Morning Jacket, was next up on stage. Last night was the only show for which he is scheduled to appear with Bright Eyes on tour. He performed solo, and his signature reverberating vocals remained while he sang and strummed an acoustic guitar.

http://www.backdrifter.com/2007/05/05/bright-eyes-at-the-greek-theatre/

[Mr. T.]

Here are some pictures I took which mostly serve to remind me that I need a new camera:
This is Jim doing his mindless soldier/robot dance thing to Gideon.

You have to admit Jim's face looks alot like Willard Grant Conspiracy's Robert Fisher.

[Mr. T.]

Here are some pictures I took which mostly serve to remind me that I need a new camera:
This is Jim doing his mindless soldier/robot dance thing to Gideon.

You have to admit Jim's face looks alot like Willard Grant Conspiracy's Robert Fisher.

Apparently Dragonboy made the same remark in the "So Jim's hair" thread!

Great minds think alike I guess...

[dragonboy]

Great minds think alike I guess...

...that & we're both fans of great music! But mostly that great minds think alike  ;)

[Elizanne33]

Hey thanks for posting your pics. They are great. I took some too, but I was not close enough so they all came out pretty blurry. I was very pleased to see Carl there too. He walked past me in the crowd a couple times and went and sat in the audience for awhile when Oakley Hall performed. He dresses very nicely, I like his style a lot. I like Jim's new hair too. I like it anyway he wears it, but change is good. I think I'm going to take a cue from him and chop mine too. Get ready for the summer heat.

I have to say I noticed a big difference in the way the crowd reacted to Jim's performance this time around compared to the last time I saw him open for Bright Eyes. The last time around people talked through his whole performance, or at least the people around me did. A couple of girls were driving me crazy complaining that they didn't like his voice very much while he was singing the most beautiful version of the bear I have ever heard. This time around it seemed like a lot more people were really into him. Minus the guy doing the hand stands. Jim got a lot of applause after each song, so that was really nice to see. His voice was beautiful of course. I only wish it could have been a longer show, but I'll take whatever I can get.

my brother and I ate at Blondie's Pizza on Telegraph Ave before the show and this is what was on the wall where we were sitting...the only picture I took that didn't come out blurry ;)