What I really loved about Neil Young's set in 2009, watching on TV, was the extent to which he was leading the band on a somewhat unplanned journey. Of course they had their setlist, but songs would clearly flex and bend according to NY's mood. Rockin' in the Free World was the most obvious example: it featured several false endings, and at the end of each one it was all eyes on the boss to see if he wanted another reprise. To me this is the essence of live music - that the band should not just be playing but creating, reacting to each other and the audience - but it's really rare these days to actually find it, particularly on the main stage of a big festival, and thrilling when you do.
I've loved Neil Young since I first discovered him about 25 years ago. I've seen him once, in Hammersmith in 2008, but for reasons unknown I really don't have strong memories of it. I'd say I'm ready for a refresher. But for all that I'd expect Charli XCX to have a significantly bigger crowd if they end up playing at the same time.
Texas as a sub doesn't strike me as a horrendous thing btw. Two sold out nights at the Hydro. Just wonder if a band headlining Belladrum would be given such a prominent spot.
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