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What is more important: what a band plays or how a band plays? This question is a very significant one, and it has reached the forefront on the Dave Matthews Band's 2001 summer tour. With a new electrified sound and a chart-topping album, Dave Matthews and his crew are faced with the conflicting demands of their new and old fans alike. Everyday, released in February of 2001, produced the best first-week sales of any Dave Matthews Band album to date. The new sound, made more "mainstream" by pop guru Glen Ballard, brings novice fans to the fold. How can the band balance their expectations with those of the band's legion of diehard fans?
During the band's kickoff stop in Charlottesville, VA, the Everyday songs, not yet road-tested, sounded a little choppy and incomplete. A couple appeared ready for the road, and it seemed only a matter of time before the rest attained a similar standard. Alas, when the band reach RFK Stadium this summer, some of these efforts were still trying to find their way. "When the World Ends" has become a serviceable concert staple, leading off many a show on the summer tour. Nevertheless, its sharp conclusion prohibits any long jam session, causing one to wonder if it will stand the test of time. Questions about longevity are not limited to "World," though, and that hits at the root of the dilemma.
The Dave Matthews Band is a phenomenally successful touring act because fans love to hear the band members - especially violinist Boyd Tinsley and saxophonist Leroi Moore - jam. These talented musicians take their studio offerings and expand them into something much more intricate and enjoyable. With the Everyday songs, including tunes like "I Did It" and "The Space Between," live performances are generating little more than standard studio takes. Contrast this with a few Lillywhite Sessions efforts from the RFK show: "Big-Eyed Fish," recognized by precious few in attendance, was a rocking success, and the show's highlight for this fan. "Bartender" and "Digging a Ditch" also reminded fans of what a true treasure the band's "lost" album can be.
The lasting memory of this show will be the tremendous amount of energy the band brought to the fore throughout the set. Even as the main set was winding down, Dave Matthews was still dancing a hearty jig all around the stage, much to the delight of screaming fans in the pit. The band was on target during a run through the middle of the set, with a drawn out "#41," jam favorite "Two Step," and the aforementioned "Big-Eyed Fish." The new album's title track, which has admittedly grown on me, provided a smooth fadeout to "#41," as the band seamlessly wove the two songs together. No one can doubt that the Dave Matthews Band is a collection of fine musicians who put on a spectacular show. This fan just wishes the band would toss out a few more classics - after all, they really are the best of what's around.
Setlist:
Encore:
See Also: Dave Matthews Band Tribute
Submitted 6/21/01.
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