74. 2 nights with Pearl Jam

  Of all the places in the whole world, my all-time favorite band decided to hold a 20th anniversary weekend just 20 minutes from my house.   PEARL JAM!!!  They headlined a weekend that also included Mudhoney, Queens of the Stone Age and The Strokes.

The first night we had Pearl Jam fan club tickets on front of the lawn.  It was a little wet out but we still rocked.  Here I am with my super-fan friend Nick (next to me) and some other cool fans.  2 guys from Indiana and the guy who thinks that giving the peace sign is cool is from Columbia.  He got our award for most psycho fan.  He traveled from Columbia to Chicago (with layovers) all to see Pearl Jam for one weekend - then back home.  There were people from all over the world that came in to see this show but he stands out because he did it... SOLO!  That's dedication!  Couldn't even get a buddy to come with him!  We had a ton of fun rocking out with him and we high-fived a lot that first night :)

Our view the first night.  Alpine Valley is a beautiful venue.

 They opened with "Release".  Pearl Jam concerts are great because they're always a surprise.  They play different set lists with a mix of old, new and covers so you never know what to expect.

For example, we got this special treat...

Chris Cornell joined in and they played some old Temple of the Dog songs.  Brought down the house.

The 2nd night we had much better seats.  Row D.

Eddie Vedder came out during the Queens of the Stone Age set and played cowbell on a song.  I really, really like that guy.

The best seats I've ever had for a concert this big.  The 2nd night was incredible.

Chris Cornell sang "Hunger Strike" again.  I wish I could wear a sweatshirt and jeans to work.

I don't remember what they're playing here.  I just remember that it was rockin.

  It's hard to tell from these pictures but the music was really loud and really awesome.

 

Best show I've ever gone to...  On my "Awesomeness Meter" I'd give this the rating of "Totally".

Thanks PJ for picking Alpine Valley for this great weekend.  Let's do it again really soon.