It was time to get out the ticket stubs and notes from 2018 and settle the debate of my top 10 of 2018 shows. Reminiscing on these was a lot of fun - I hope you guys enjoy.
Roosevelt - Bottom Lounge
If you read favorite show of 2018 (if not, do it!) then this should be no surprise to you. In the middle of the show lead front man, Marius Lauber, addressed the crowd in the middle of the set in saying "Wow. We are so far away from home right now. But, it's great to be here with all of you right now."
Childish Gambino - United Center
This one held the rein for the best show until Roosevelt came to town. A pleasant surprise to this show was the full experience itself, something that is not quite tangible enough to describe. Donald Glover gave a top-notch performance in one of my least favorite venues in Chicago, for a concert experience. Now that says something.
The Story So Far - The Metro
After a fired up daytime slot at Riot Fest 2017, TSSF returned to Chicago in November 2018 for a tour featuring their newest album, "Proper Dose." I went to this show with the same friend who introduced me to the band – it could not have been more fitting in addition to sitting on the balcony of The Metro, avoiding the sweat pit goers.
The Foo Fighters - Wrigley Field
Highly anticipated, my father and I enjoyed a warm fall evening at Wrigley Field to see FF take Chicago to rock heaven. As dad put it in his own words" it was one of those shows you left with a really good feeling inside, and you weren't a bit tired, regardless of what time it was at night!"
Alice in Chains - The Riviera
Another show with dad, but it was even louder than FF. Of the top 10, this may have been the best sounding show – including the openers. There's something special about hearing "Man In The Box" for the first time in a live setting. I sang the entire song, word for word, including guitar sounds.
Greta Van Fleet - The Vic
The only association I had with Lollapalooza this year was this after show. On a warm August evening, my friend and I slugged a few tall boys of Miller Lite while waiting in snake-like line around the block. We had the best seats in the house – front and center, with black smoke rising.
The Killers - Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee
As a lone ranger, I went to this concert solo - with no regrets. The Killers continue to tour and play music that gives you a reason to smile like you mean it.
Digitalism - Lincoln Hall
Contrary to most of my friend who went with me, this was a quality show again by the German-duo. It holds its place for one primary reason: the guy who showed me the band back in high school came along with us. Those are the moments that carry a long way with yourself.
Goldroom - Anita Dee II Boat Cruise, Lake Michigan
Ahoy shipmates! For a warm summer Saturday in the middle of July, we could not have asked for a better crowd and experience than the Goldroom High Seas experience on the Anita Dee II. For a sold out experience, the breeze and music paired hand in hand to the groove of people moving on the top deck of the cruise ship. Let us say, this will not be my last boat show.
Nothing But Thieves - The Metro
While Conor admitted early in the show he lacked full voice abilities, he still produced a great vocal performance with NBT. The crowd's response and enthusiasm couldn't have been any better as they supported the band from start to finish.
