Wilco Concert Review-Copley Symphony Hall-San Diego, CA-1/22/2012

I've always felt a certain pride from the fact that Jeff Tweedy was from right outside of my hometown of St. Louis, Missouri. I secretly thought that we may have shared some common experiences growing up near the same area. The first time I heard "Heavy Metal Drummer" it literally gave me the chills. I knew exactly what he was referring to when he said " I sincerely miss those heavy metal bands I used to go see on the landing in the summer." In fact, any teenage rock fan that grew up in St. Louis in the 80's knows what he was talking about. No one ever wrote a song about what it was like being a teenager in the Midwest. Jeff Tweedy always seemed like he was one of us.

1985- On the Landing- That's me on the right hanging with out
one of the many heavy metal bands that I used to go see.

Copley Symphony Hall was a perfect venue for a band like Wilco. The art deco hall was built in the late 20's and the acoustics were top notch.The band White Denim opened the show and took the stage to a half full theatre. They played a 35 minute set of "jam band" tunes and the crowd seemed appreciative of their musicianship.

By the time Wilco took the stage the entire 2,200 seat theatre was packed to capacity. Not an empty seat in the house. The band opened with "One Sunday Morning"from The Whole Love the album that they are currently supporting on tour. The 23 song, 2 hour career spanning set had a little something for everyone. From the country stylings of "Box Full of Letters" from A.M. through the more experimental "Poor Places" from Yankee Hotel Foxtrot.

 Jeff Tweedy has one of the best voices in rock n' roll and he was really on top of his game this evening. He has the ability to draw a listener in with a sweet melancholy whisper one minute and a powerful scream the next. He was confident and seemed very comfortable in his skin. After many lineup changes over the years there is is no doubt that this is his band.

There were a few highlights of the evening. Guitarist Nels Cline played one of the most incredible guitar solos that I've ever heard during "Impossible Germany". He was recently named to Rolling Stones' list of the top 100 guitarist of all time. This is an honor he definitely deserves.

Another highlight was the performance of "California Stars" a song Wilco originally recorded for the Woody Guthrie tribute Mermaid Avenue. The vocals, lyrics, musicianship and unbelievable light show were all top notch. The band is tight and seem to really enjoy playing with each other.

The three song encore included "The Whole Love", "Outtasite (Outta Mind)" and of course "Heavy Metal Drummer" complete with flashback chills.

setlist

• 01 - One Sunday Morning (Song For Jane Smiley's Boyfriend)
• 02 - Poor Places
• 03 - Art of Almost
• 04 - I Might
• 05 - Muzzle Of Bees
• 06 - Misunderstood
• 07 - Bull Black Nova
• 08 - At Least That's What You Said
• 09 - Rising Red Lung
• 10 - Impossible Germany
• 11 - Open Mind
• 12 - California Stars
• 13 - Handshake Drugs
• 14 - Box Full of Letters
• 15 - Born Alone
• 16 - Jesus, Etc.
• 17 - Pot Kettle Black
• 18 - Dawned On Me
• 19 - Hummingbird
• 20 - Shot in the Arm
• Encore:
• 21 - Whole Love
• 22 - Heavy Metal Drummer
• 23 - Outtasite (Outta Mind)