Two nights, more than 70,000 fans, mom and dad's SUVs with Illinois plates; it was a summertime ritual as reliable as cream puffs and mullets at the State Fair as the 2004 edition of the Dave Matthews Band rolled through Alpine Valley Music Theatre last weekend much to the delight of the near-frenzied fans who had begun tailgating as early as noon on each day for the evening shows.
In what seems to be a never-ending touring schedule, Matthews' stop in East Troy proffered one of the more memorable two-night stints there in recent years. Both nights offered a microcosm of the band's experience and depth, with material spanning the band's 10-plus years together.
In mixing new with old, Saturday's show began with "Hello Again" and followed with the classic "Granny" before settling into a groove including hallmarks "#41," "Too Much" and "So Much To Say." Toward the end of the latter, Matthews and his band paid homage to the recently deceased Rick James, segueing into "Super Freak," thrilling the fans, who sang along enthusiastically.
Playing crowd favorites such as "Bartender," "Grey Street" and "Ants Marching," the band hit a stride before slowing for "Everyday." Fans then recalled the band to the stage to perform and encore of "Typical Situation" and "Warehouse" before saying good night for good.
Sunday's set list was markedly disparate. As seems to be a trend with the band's shows, the second night's performance leaned more toward a relaxed and serene mood with songs like "Lover Lay Down," "Seek Up," "Where Are You Going" and "Fool To Think." However, the band was able to create a buzz by ending with "Jimi Thing," "Drive In Drive Out" and "What Would You Say" before returning to the stage to reward the devoted fans with "Crazy Easy" and band stalwart "Tripping Billies."
During the two-night, 38-song performance, it was evident that the band hit its peaks and valleys of energy, almost taking the fans from one emotional point to another while doing what they do best: playing music. The band refrained from conveying any political ideologies or even announcing their recently scheduled performance for "Vote For Change" in October.
There seems to be no sign of slowing for the Dave Matthews Band and its ever-expanding fan base. The devotees' insatiable desire for new material and live performances sees no end. Matthews and his band appear to welcome the challenge.
