SF FAN:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 00:19:19


Holy smokes! Power outages that shut down two (count 'em) songs! SF truly is the city that doesn't know how.

CABLECARCOURT:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 00:33:39


unreal. sound failure.

:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 01:27:50


concert was amazing and awesome. although there were some sound problems in the beginning it was still as epic as people suggest and stat they are.
i cant remember in what order but i know they played these songs:

15 step
reckoner
there,there
talk show host
all i need
nude
the national anthem
weird fishes
jigsaw falling into place
bodysnatchers
just
karma police
pyramid song
paranoid android
fake plastic trees
everything in its right place

RICKY D:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 08:24:16


Lots of tech and sound problems. The sound completely went out twice during the show. I've been to over 500 concerts and have never seen that before. But Thom apologized and said something like they didn't have very long to set up the equipment and that after all its "all about the music" which got the very large crowd to roar with approval. If I'm not mistaken this is the very first time a band was allowed to play amplified in Golden Gate Park in the evening and the band was on a very strict curfew, 9:50 (I'm guessing that would give them 10 minutes to the real double secret probation curfew of 10pm). The crowd seemed to grow as the show went on, possibly due to the fact that the fences keeping non ticket holders out were temporary and veryyyyy flexible. A whole lot of locals got in free. There were also hundreds just outside the fences enjoying the sounds of the concert.The cool San Francisco fog and mist complimented Radiohead's dreamy sound.The peaceful crowd walked out of the park and into the surrounding neighborhood pubs and restaurants. An enjoyable evening and experience, however next time I really hope that when Radiohead comes back to the
Bay Area they play the Shoreline Amphitheater

ROCKNE SHAN:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 08:44:22


This was the closest I've ever benn to Radiohead. And like everybody whose benn within and underhand lobs distance from these dedicated entertainers I was amazed. How could one not be? Not only does this band tirelessly work through each song to deliver the best they can muster, but they find it within themselves to find some sort of personal touch, like giving an earnest gift to a bunch of people they don't even know based on this strange faith and understanding that many of us out there "need them". And a good fan should, some of us did everything we could to give them as much thanks and praise for the gift we were given, as we could.
Being that close to Radiohead is a very emotional thing. I don't know how many times I fought off the urge to thank each one of the band mebers during each interlude.Ed is such abeautiful man and back up vocalist, phil is so steadfast and tireless, johnny is a genius in a laboratory, colin is the fans' best friend, and thom is an eternal flame that pulses with the fuel of the crowd and some sort of highly evolved connection and appreciation for the fans of his art.
I may or may not ever see Radiohead up that close again. I'm so very glad I finally had the chance to stand in front of them, and give them the love I have so deeply in my heart for their contribution to human culture. I even got to finish a few lyrics for thom when the sound went out.....my favorite part of the entire experience...."I was in the middle of the picture"....finally.

RYAN:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 09:01:24


We arrived as soon as the gates opened to asure a good angle for the show. We were front stage right. The performence was amazing as was expected. The technical difficulties created a minor stir, but once fixed it was as if it never happend. The National Anthem was brilliant as was Paranoid Andriod with Fake Plastic Trees right after. Thom was really into it as was the whole band and seemed really happy to be there. Looking forward to seeing them in Santa Barbara.

JOEY D:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 09:11:28


I liked how we paid more money and got less music than the rest of the tour(only 22 songs?) Even less because of the "sound problems". I guess my expectations were too high. The hiccup by Jonny during "you and whose army" was amusing tho.

BRENT:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 09:40:47


Yes, the music was solid, and they did their best to work through the tech problems... I'm no perfectionist so I didn't mind..

What I did mind is that I was 60 feet back from the stage, couldn't see ANYTHING (i'm 5'11!) and what's worse?... I felt like I was in a MOSH PIT even though I was so far back...

tons of people had to bail for greener pastures.. I felt trapped... I'll never go to another festival style concert again.... that bridge and bridge trash really kilt and vibe the usually tranquil san francisco crowd felt like it was auditioning to be in a slayer video!

can't wait for H'wood bowl and S'Barbara bowl.. as usual, i expect SoCal to be SoPerior in "knowing how to party".... 'cause that was just a travesty what went on last night...

I feel bad for people who got there early, only to have their blankets, chairs, coolers, and selves stampeded by the savages that showed up late and still felt obligated to push as close as possible.. so lame..

give me seats, or give me death... almost bout died last night.. cheers..

great band though.. jesus they are great

J:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 09:43:01


Crowd and sound problems during the festival negatively altered too much of what I was anticipating to be an amazing experience. Radiohead sounded tired and off key. There were somewhat redeeming moments, (lights during National Anthem and All I Need), but the show just lacked the raw passion that the band almost automatically manifests through their performances. I know that there were problems cause by forced out of the bands control but I was disappointed.

BOBBY415:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 09:44:09


Funny, I didn't even remember the techincal problems until I read the other reviews, if those 2 people judge the show on those two outages please stay home next time.
Too many highlights to mention.
Thom breaking up during the beginning of You And Who's Army was one of them. Sound was suprisingly good. Another great show by the best band on the planet, true geniuses!
The venue on the other hand, wayyyy to many people. Was hoping for the Greek Thearter like 06' But what are you going to do, not go?

JOANNA:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 09:46:37


I was immensely close to the front row on Jonny's side of the stage, and it was the most beautiful experience to have. Their light show is unreal and masterfully done, and despite the sound problems during the beginning songs of the show, they held their own and kept going. It was really sweet to see all 5 of them standing in a line (Phil in the back), smiling, as Thom apologized for the problems. "It is about the music, after all."

Highlights were definitely "Talk Show Host" and "Just" due to the energy and both of the songs feeling like a sweet call-back for the life-long fans. This is the third time I've seen "Paranoid Android" and it was the best performance yet. The build-up during "Idioteque" got everyone jumping, and "The National Anthem" was scary and perfect (I think Jonny, with his radio, picked up a baseball game!). Thom has some new dance moves! They're so great!

Best part, though: during "You & Whose Army," there was a camera fixed on Thom's mic and he positioned his head so that it was on his eye and Jonny playing just behind him, which was projected onto the screen behind them. In the middle of the song, they both start laughing, and Jonny hit the piano keys with his guitar, and couldn't stop laughing a long while after Thom started singing again. It was such a gem for all the fans!

All in all, great concert, they are the greatest band to ever exist, and I can't wait to see them again in LA on Monday!

POIDOGPONDERS:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 10:36:23


First time I've ever seen RH live. Mixed experience. The band played its heart out, especially memorable were "Paranoid Android" and "Karma Police." The laser lighting effects complemented the cool misty fog looming over the park. But there were many technical glitches: the aforementioned, unprecedented complete sound failures on two early songs, some out-of-tune guitars and a lack of balancing in some ensemble parts. Few attendees could actually see the low stage from the standing-room-only field so the arty video "effects" Radiohead chose to show on the big screens were a disappointment, compared to the faithful and well-directed screen shots of the Manu Chao band that preceded them. Still a lifetime thrill, though.

RAULGONZO:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 10:46:41


Aside from a great show (rh always delivers) the chaos afterwards was something to behold. thousands of people trying to leave at once turned into a prison break for myself and my girlfriend. We jumped over the fence to begin with (as did many others). But then people started to knock fences over just to get out. When we got up to a hill we looked down at all the people still trying to get out- and it was a crazy sight. thousands of heads gasping for air, moving in slow motion. to the many next to me with cameras, please post photos! Then a group of us cut through many shortcuts to try to make it to the Muni before the masses got there. By the time we got back downtown our friends we just barely getting out - an hour later!

JESSE:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 11:00:43


Absolutely beautiful show. This was my 3rd Radiohead experience and the 2nd one in SF. By far, this one took the glory, the set list, the aura, the band, the audience, the fog, made this amazing!! Johnny Greenwood was ridiculously incredible like always, he steals the show for me every time.

SHAURIN:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 11:39:28


The sound went out during Airbag and All I Need. Pretty awesome though when the crowd was singing All I Need. Thom apologized for the sound problem and he said he didn't know what the fuck was going on. I was glad when they played Paranoid Android since they didn't really play it on their first leg in the States. It was my first Radiohead concert and it was nothing short of amazing.

:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 13:05:24


Amazing show!!!
Despite some technical difficulties and two people behind me so stoned that they wouldn't stop talking until I finally turned round and asked them to stop. Killed their buzz but I didn't pay a hundred bucks for that.
Great set list and to hear everyone around you sing to Jigsaw Falling Into Place was just fantastic.
Santa Barbara here I come.

JARED:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 13:31:21


The sound problems didn't really bug me because they only happened twice. The back screen not working was a larger problem i think but at least it was working for you and whose army. The craziest and most incredible songs I think were Talk Show Host and Exit Music. Those 5 guys blew me away completely.

NOIMPORTA:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 13:33:14


worst live show experience ever .... not 'pro' sound at all. not to be accepted as 'cool' or 'okay' kids. these guys are pros and should have safegaurded thier much touted live show rep... i call for a make up show !
there was ample time (two bands prior) to dial everthing in.

85.00 disappointment -- yeah, no one paid for that dead space - over 2 mins soundless during two songs.

unacceptable ....

C:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 14:25:13


Well I have to say it didn't quite live up to my expectations. They were perfect of course, but the venue sucked. It was absolutely freezing, technical problems, and I couldn't see the stage at all. Then after it was over, it was a stampede of people trying to rush out of a tiny tunnel. Totally ridiculous. Then of course they couldn't have a second encore :/.
Thom was amazing & hilarious, but I thought they'd be more psyched to play in SF.
Still, how could I not go?

03:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 14:35:28


.. a moment after we saluted the National Anthem, I turned to my new friend experiencing his first Radiohead concert who told me it was "Monumental"...After rolling out a wish come true Karma Police I added..."Indescribable!!!"

I have seen about 50 Radiohead shows...Every time there might be an expectation of less than phenominal, Radiohead takes it up another level...How could they do it again?
The visual presentation was the most complimentary ever to the material. Every song was spectacularly more beautiful than ever before... because of it... As well as new subtle arrangements of Karma Police, Just, National Anthem, Fake Plastic Trees, Paranoid Android...are you joking?..

SF of course the coolest most respectful crowd ever... The sound going out for like a minute twice is not even something worth mentioning.. except to alert diehard fans... rather than being upset Thom joked "Who stepped on the cord."... brilliant and worth the moment of the song we missed as well as organic fun that proves that the show is LIVE.. I have never seen Thom laugh and break up like he did on You and Who's Army... A new bop dance move smiles on my boy Ed's face it was all so genuine..

a shorter set but with a dream come true set list a fantastic set surrounding the band with the choice of videos down to the specific colors of the video and lights truely put Radiohead
In_ Rainbows and Everything in its Right Place!!!

03 02 Barry

RADIOHEAD GEEK:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 17:24:07


Ok 7th Radiohead show since 98’ all have been on the west coast. Over those shows I have learned that it matters where the show is held. The most important part and the positive was the performance, and as always was simply brilliant. Tons of energy from Thom and Jonny, lots of the new album and songs that make you reach back into the cookie jar; Pyramid song, Reckoner, Just. The best place to see these guys however is at the Greek, Santa Barbra and Hollywood bowl. Someone wrote they wanted to see them at Shoreline. Really? Ever been to a show there? That place is the worst outdoor venue in CA. Outdoor lands was a good concept, execution was ridiculous, and it became apparent that the creators turned themselves into whores that “took the money and ran”. Two sound outages? Nice. We paid the normal entry fee for just last nights show, made a wrong turn and wound up in VIP seating, I mean standing, with a bunch of people who simply walked over the fence and got to see the show for free. Maybe they should have done the same thing with the show that they did with “In Rainbows” and let us decide how much we wanted to pay to see it. Bathroom situation sucked, you had to walk 15 blocks to get a cab after the show and you were lucky to get one. Alright I changed my wet diaper. It was still a great show, the setting, the weather, crowd, Christ we got to see Radiohead again!

D:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 17:49:03


I agree that there seemed to be a bit of a lack of passion from the band. Personally I think it might have been the audience. This is the first time I've seen Radiohead perform in the USA and... no offense, but you guys seem to just expect them to pour entertainment out, whereas international audiences seem to muster a lot more enthusiasm.
I remember the time before last when I saw them, they finished their encore then with "Everything in it's right place" then too, the crowd were all clapping in unison to the beat for at least 15 mins after they had gone off stage. Not to mention the sea of lighters swaying when they played Exit Music... but here, everyone just stood around, and clapped and cheered a little at pauses.
I expected more from a SF crowd, I thought you guys were hugely into music, but everyone except those in the very front seemed less-than-immersed in the experience. Then again, maybe it was because it was a festival, so not everyone was a die-hard fan.
I'm curious to know if any others also feel that the audience internationally are a lot better.
On the up side, I went home and had the most awesome dream about meeting the band!

AZAD:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 18:52:51


The show was pretty spectacular, sans the two sound problems that the band faced early in the set. Reckoner was honestly, one of the best songs I have ever heard them play, out of the 5 times i've seen them. Talk Show Host was unexpected and flawless, Arpeggi was absolutely beautiful, and You and Whose Army was comical and grand. Lastly, the sound was great; I can't believe people think that it was unprofessional and ruined their reputation.
I could clearly differentiate almost every sound/part in every song. The reverb was great, kickdrum was heard, guitars were relatively balanced and the bass was clean and clear. Those people angry about the whole show are probably just mad that they didn't play Creep or something of that sort. Again, I'm speechless and stand firm with the idea that Radiohead is the greatest band in the world. Here's to more great shows.

Cheers

TONE:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 19:13:13


my first radiohead show and i have to say it was amazing. yeah it was hella crowded but it was RADIOHEAD in golden gate park AT NIGHT! despite the sound problems towards the beginning of the show it was worked out by the end and the band was actually having a laugh about it. they played so many great songs last night and despite the ticket price, i'd have to say it was so worth it.

CG:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 20:12:42


Well, If that was your first time to see them play in the states, I think it's a bit unfair to generalize and compare the US crowds and San Francisco to international audiences. This WAS a festival, so yes, there aren't going to be ALL die hard fans, and there were people almost a mile back so I really can't expect anyone to be so "involved" when they can only see a little screen from so far away. Thankfully I was not one of those people and I know the area I was in were cheering with all they're might.

The band were amazing last night and I saw pleanty of excited fans...but let's be honest, some where not there to see radiohead, there were pleanty of other bands playing. Perhaps a more intamate setting would be best for you. Experience that before you generalize....

Radiohead were great, and I could care less about that crowd, I was there to see them and I love that I did. The music is the only thing that matters.

DIEGO:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 20:29:24


I traveled from Mexico City to SF only to see Radiohead. That was one of the dreams of my life: seeing them playing live. For a reason i cannot understand they just don't consider playing in Mexico. That's why I left Mexico City at 4.00 AM and traveled miles and miles, until 4 PM, when i got the tickets.

Maybe they don't sure what they should expect in my country. Maybe Radiohead can ask Pearl Jam what happened after ten years they decided to go there. The people of SF are so serious, didn't get crazy as i expected, but the atmosphere was so great. Despite the fences, the large mass of people, the distance, the concert were so great. Radiohead is the best rock band in the world. Period.

KATIE:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 21:51:09


I have only seen radiohead at festivals and it reinforces how much I like them and how much I would love to see them at a smaller venue where I get an assigned seat. It is amazing that I can enjoy a concert so much despite the creepy guy who was standing so close that his body kept pressing against me.....gross. Seriously, radiohead is so amazing live that I put up with creepy guy who doesn't believe in personal space.

The show itself was outstanding (the density of the crowd was pretty insane though). The lights were awesome. The sound quality was great (i love the gloaming!). Even the sound failures ended up being kind of cool because of the crowd's response. I was impressed by how many people knew all the lyrics! And everyone stayed so positive that it didn't ruin my experience at all.

TRAVIS WIDDER:
Submitted on: AUGUST 23, 2008 23:15:27


First RH show, and it did not disappoint! Set list was killer, and it's pretty amazing the sounds they can reproduce live. On the other hand, Outside Lands was the most poorly organized show I've ever been to - headliners playing right on top of each other, the two main stages at polar opposite ends of the park, and sound problems... for $100 they should at least give you enough time to run from one end of the park to the other by the time the next band comes on.

ROSITA:
Submitted on: AUGUST 24, 2008 00:13:03


I've seen Radiohead 3 times in Los Angeles and all I have to say is... AMAZING!!! So, I expected just that when I went to Outside Lands and all I have to say is...DISAPPOINTING!!! So what was it and what went wrong? Bad sound check, never-ending fog, moody crowd, overpriced tickets and beer, and the worst Radiohead performance I've ever seen. I have friends that will be attending the Los Angeles and San Diego shows and will be avoiding their calls in the coming days so I don't have to talk about this.

WILL:
Submitted on: AUGUST 24, 2008 11:49:44


Wonderful Gig. I saw thom and co. both gigs in Berkeley, CA in '06, and they seemed much happier this time. Thom was dancing his heart out, and he looked dressed to impress. I can't believe nobody has mentioned how good 'Reckoner' was! Truly monumental. I think the show was amazing, and if you were close to the stage, then you could really appreciate the wonderful job those guys did on sound. Props to Radiohead for not flipping out when the sound cut (it did negatively affect the build-up of 'all i need') however those guys are incredible. Pyramid song and 15 step did not let down. I can't believe these guys played that well.

EOIN:
Submitted on: AUGUST 24, 2008 13:50:34


Disappointing show, but more to do with the venue than Radiohead. Terrible stage position, seemed like it was down in a hole! The big screen's werent all that big, which was a shame as the visuals looked stunning, as usual. The sound went out twice, unforgiveable, doublely (sp?) so as the first time was during Airbag!!!

Thom was incredible, as he always is, Mr. Greenwood seemed a bit off form to me early on, confirmed when Thom had to shout at him 'You're too slow!' during Everything, but he was back to his brilliant best after that. First and hopefully last time I will ever have to leave a Radiohead gig early, again this was due to the venue, not the band, luckly could hear all of the last 3 songs on the way out, altho bit disappointed after paying $180 for 2 tickets to see so many sat in the park listening away!

Still not a patch on Thom's birthday gig on the Kid A tour in Dublin in 2000, in fact would rank this number 5 out of the 5 Radiohead shows I have been to.

JARROD:
Submitted on: AUGUST 24, 2008 15:51:10


Honestly, despite sound issues, the band was great. I think true fans of the band could care less about all the annoying factors that can ruin ones experience. it wasnt about how good they were or how good it sounded (because they are always good and always sound good), all i can say was i was just so happy to hear the music that i loved, all other things sort of went by the wayside.

THE GOAT:
Submitted on: AUGUST 24, 2008 18:30:05


c'mon people, we all know why the sound cut out. God felt threatened. Twice

All I need, indeed

MATT:
Submitted on: AUGUST 24, 2008 18:55:22


This is the first time I've seen Radiohead live, and I must admit, I was pretty disappointed. I would put it this way. It was a great show stuck in a bad concert (if that makes sense). Radiohead played great, but I didn't like the circumstances. Maybe I was just expecting too much.

Regarding the sound, I've worked in professional live audio for a while and it was disappointing. Seeing the two failures I felt some sympathy for the engineers ('cause they feel like crap), but at the same time we don't tolerate component failure in the industry anymore. If you want my opinion, it sounded like a digital component failed. When there was sound it was WAY too heavy on the low end. Way too much bass, way too much kick to the point of distortion. Granted, it might have been where I was standing. I was up close to the front left.

I agree, the crowd wasn't into the show too much, and kind of expected to be blown away. The reason they were so uninvolved was because they were high. Another problem I had: Way too much pot. I was surprised how much weed there was and for someone like me who doesn't enjoying smoking at all, it made things quite uncomfortable. I'd rather enjoy the show than hold my breath waiting for the smoke to blow away.

Okay, that was a lot of negative, time for some positive. I loved how they played "Talk Show Host." I love that song so much. Even though it's been a long time since we first heard it on the Romeo + Juliet soundtrack. It doesn't sound dated at all. Actually, none of the songs sound dated. It all feels just as fresh as the new songs. The new songs by the way were so strong and just as excited to hear as the old. The lighting was amazing and truly creative. I was amazed.

The most impressive part for me was when the sound went out and the band kept playing. Now that takes guts. To me, that's one of things that divides the good from the great. That was a moment of greatness.

So for me it's mixed. A good show stuck in a bad concert. I don't think it was worth the money though. I'd rather pay less to see Radiohead in a more intimate venue.

OFNAZARETH@YAHOO.COM:
Submitted on: AUGUST 24, 2008 20:20:57


6th time watching radiohead.
amazing performance.
sound went out a couple times.
we paid way too much money, for not enough songs.
non the less very great full to had seen the greatest band in the world again.
radiohead saved my life.

JAKE:
Submitted on: AUGUST 24, 2008 21:27:00


I was pretty disappointed that we didn't get "Lucky" or "No Surprises" but "Exit Music (for a Film)" and "Just" pretty much made up for it.

I managed to make my way to the complete front fence by arriving 20 min. prior to their entrance -- thanks to the fact audience members here weren't douchebags.

The occasional sound failures were slightly odd -- but what do you expect? It was the first year of this festival ... and the first time they've ever put together something so huge in GGP. Strangely enough though, the sound of everyone singing together, unified, was mind-blowing.

And the lighting. The fog rolling in over the city made it feel like home, and it was spectacular to look up at the green-coloured sky ...

QUENTIN:
Submitted on: AUGUST 24, 2008 21:29:49


first Radiohead show was not disappointed. I thought I might have been over hyping it and be let down but it was amazing, couldn't've imagined a better set list, national anthem, exit music, and idioteque were my faves. the visual show was awesome even though it probably would've sucked if you were far away but from where I was it complemented the show perfectly.yeah I agree there were exteral problems but radiohead was so great they overcame the sound probs, ridiculous amounts of people, and my horrible back pain. I was just so invovled in the performance that the only feeling I had was one of elation, overall best show I've ever witnessed.

ATOM:
Submitted on: AUGUST 24, 2008 22:14:21


Yeah, the sound ruined what was becoming an epic All I Need. Their video screens were glitchy all night, which was distracting. The band started sluggish, but really got into an amazing groove on Talk Show Host, Arpeggi and National Anthem.

Yes, the SF crowd was quiet, kinda bored and just lame. A very techie crowd. Just like their sports crowds. Not a wild bunch at all. Very odd, considering the hippies started here.

Regardless, RH rocked my brains out. Thank you!

ARIEL:
Submitted on: AUGUST 25, 2008 13:53:01


seriously, you can't expect your experience at a festival to even remotely compare to one of the band's regular concerts. you go to a festival knowing that there are going to be HORDES of people, and that you probably won't have a good view of the stage. it was great, sound was good, good setlist, but hollywood bowl last night was better (as expected) and i know tonight's hollywood bowl show is going to be AMAZING!

MIKE S:
Submitted on: AUGUST 25, 2008 16:33:19


great show. Sound is spot on and they make music better than the album, expanding on it every time. Think they played better because of the PA problems. Scheduling was bad with Beck too close in proximity and time. There were dips in the field. I'm tall and couldn't see anything.

They handled the sound problems very well, blaming themselves. (Tom Petty by contrast said: "it's not our fault")

JOHNNY:
Submitted on: AUGUST 25, 2008 20:07:46


6th RH show for me. Great setlist. Very good performance even brilliant at times. As expected their performance of 'In Rainbows' material stronger than Berkeley 2006. The LED stage lighting coupled with the remote cameras used on the 2006 tour created an incredible visual sure to be imitated by other artists.

Sound issue a non-issue for me. Albeit inexcusable it's just the nature of a festival show. Despite 2 sound cuts, the OL sound was clearly superior to the RH shows at Shoreline, where sound blows chimp for the entire show.

Worst crowd experience by far though tolerable even amusing. Typical RH show is more emotionally intense, respectful, and into the gig as an experience versus a bragging right. The OL crowd was more of your get wasted, summertime in the city crowd. No big deal just a minor annoyance. Heard one guy self-proclaim himself a "genius" because he snuck some pot into the show by mixing 2 spliffs in with some Camel filters in a hard pack. You get the idea. I would agree with other comments about the SF crowd. Large SF Bay Area crowds always strike me as too cool to care.

I danced, sang along, and lost myself in the music. Great show.

BRANDON:
Submitted on: AUGUST 26, 2008 01:17:00


i think the people complaining about the soung need to get over themselves. the show was the best ive seen.... i was front row and in between tom and jonny. i stood there all day to get that spot and it was well worth it. radiohead had nothing to do with the sound failures... and they were quit obviously more frusterated than the fans. it was minor. also in the front the crowd was super mellow. i was extemely impressed and couldnt of asked for more. if you wanted more.... than fuck you :]

MARINA:
Submitted on: AUGUST 26, 2008 22:37:08


Very good performance from the guys! The sound cutting out wasn't a big issue for me; I only wish it wasn't during Airbag and All I Need.

The main issue I had was being SO far away from the stage. I couldn't even see the screens! I'm a petite lady, so I guess that's to be expected. But I noticed a lot of people had the same issue, even when they were a lot taller than me. I'd prefer to see the guys in a much smaller venue. If only they could have performed at the Greek Theater again!!!

Despite the huge crowd and being so far away from the stage, there were some great moments. Fake Plastic Trees was perfect!! And it was wonderful hearing Talk Show Host.

I have my fingers crossed for next time. Small venue, small venue, small venue!

THERUDSTER:
Submitted on: AUGUST 27, 2008 08:54:38


This was my first time seeing radiohead live. I've read some of the other reviews and i have to say a lot of it's true. I didn't really feel that magic that radiohead is known to bring to their shows this time around and i have to admit the venue wasn't really thought out the whole way. i mean we only had five minutes maybe(?) to get from beck to radiohead and then EVERYONE wanted to get to the front. i lost a lot of enthusiasm when i was having to stand squeezed between a bunch of tall people and barely seeing the band. a lot of the people didnt seem enthused either. I didnt like how short their setlist was and im pretty sure if we'd have kept cheering they would've felt the love and played some more, but we'll never know. I guess it was just bad circumstances. on the other hand i loved the light show. and thom and johnny's (although ed and colin i saw we're really just chillin and smiling the whole time)really really energetic. the sound glitches were fine. mistakes happen and you cant get it perfect every show. all in all, theyre my favorite band and im glad i finally got to see them. maybe next time they can just play the filmore though. ha.

REGINA PHALANGE:
Submitted on: AUGUST 27, 2008 11:59:37


the recording of the show can be found here:

http://idisk.mac.com/djjoo-Public?view=web

unfortunately i cannot give credit, i'm not sure who posted this, the link was emailed to me.

it's pretty good quality, as if recorded straight from the sound board, minimal crowd noise.

JENN:
Submitted on: AUGUST 27, 2008 18:57:36


i was a radiohead live virgin until last friday night. all the traveling, financial, and crowded nonsense was well worth it when i started tearing up when they came on stage. looking at their pictures and listening to thom's voice for years made seeing them in person an overwhelming experience.

i was one of the die-hard fans who camped out front row as soon as the gates opened, and thank god i did. we ended up right in front of ed, and i can easily say it was one of the best places i've been in my 19 years.

my friend painted the in rainbows cover art on her bag and i think it caught ed's eye. so he looked at us, said thank you, literally sang along with us several times through the show. i can't get over how we feel an almost personal connection with this musician whom we've marveled at for years. it may not seem like a big deal to some, but we will never forget that surreal moment in time.

so thanks to colin, jonny, phil, thom, and especially ed for being gifted, gracious, and gorgeous. thank you for giving me the most powerful live music experience i might ever have (until i see you all again.) i hope i can handle waiting to see ed's amazing smile in person again.

KGAR:
Submitted on: AUGUST 27, 2008 20:38:00


Me and my girlfriend got stuck in a mob being pushed to the front and had people yelling at us accusing us of trying to push our way to the front when all we wanted was to get out! The crowd definitely sucked; people running around yelling and talking on their cell phones during Karma Police, yuppie couples with their toddlers on their shoulders, people walking all around you kicking garbage around.. the vibe sucked and as a SF resident I was disappointed.

Nonetheless, Radiohead is the best rock band ever and video screens and the fog rolling in was pretty cool. Sound problems didn't help but mainly I'd say the vibe was off because of a moody crowd and piss poor organizing. You simply could not see the band unless you entered (what people are calling) "the mosh pit"

JETTY:
Submitted on: AUGUST 28, 2008 08:44:49


I was cold and separated from my sister and friends. The crowd insisted on moving, moving, moving and pressing closer to the stage. When the sound cut out it was frighteneing to be among so many frustrated souls. I could only see the people in front of me and a piece of the lights and fog. We all worked for it, and the band worked hardest of all. Inside an ocean of people the music grabbed my hand and I floated on the clouds above with the rest of the drops of water.

Still, sitting on my ass at the Hollywood Bowl seemed a better deal. I could actually see the stage and the lights and my feet did not hurt.

TIM F.:
Submitted on: AUGUST 30, 2008 20:00:37


6th time seeing the boys.

I've been to lots of festivals, and it seems to me a lot of the complaints about the show come from people who have never been to a festival before.

Granted, the organization/logistics/scheduling/layout of this festival SUCKED (borderline criminal, actually), but the band was INSANE--probably the best I've ever seen them--and I can't understand the indictment of the band's performance some are giving here at all.

I think a lot of the animosity people perceived came from the crappy organization. A no-blanket rule between the soundboard and the stage at least would have gone a long way...

Fantastic set list, best since the first time I saw them during the Amnesiac tour.

Yes the sound cut out. Radiohead didn't do it and someone was punished, I'm sure ;)

If it weren't for the same issues during Tom Petty I would have been sure it was a conspiracy to prove how amazing and professional this band is to keep playing with passion through it all.

Top-notch. Hoping they can come back to the Greek next time, though (greatest venue in the Bay).

DIEGO:
Submitted on: SEPTEMBER 02, 2008 22:00:10


people dissapointed for sounds failure? so what? big deal...I went to the show in Florida, and this was 10 times better...paranoid android, FPT, HTDC, can ask for more