This was my 27th Springsteen concert and I'm happy to report Bruce can still rock with the best. It was truly an awesome show. He has scaled back his staging, it really was more like a bar band setting than the big arena shows of the past. But the music is as big as ever.

He continues to write and perform strong new material and dug into his impressive repertoire as you can see from the set list. It was just amazing to experience how much life was in these songs that are 35 years old. He's still adding and interpreting new elements into these standards. Today's pop artists and their fans may dismiss Bruce as dinosaur rock but they should be so lucky to write one song as good as any of the 24 he played last night.

I saw my first Springsteen concert when I was 17 and my wife and I really enjoyed watching our 16-year-old son digging his first Bruce concert last night and singing along to Backstreets, his favorite song. That was a highlight, as was hearing Kitty's Back, the first time live after all those concerts.

David, the Red Garter reference is to Bruce's very first show in Indy, 1977 in the Convention Center. He and Clarence spent a little time in the Red Garter while they were in town and a couple Red Garter employees were brought on stage during 10th Avenue Freeze Out to join the festivities.

By the way, tickets for that show cost $6.50 and the current tour costs over $100 a seat including fees. I think that's why the arena was not filled up, had nothing to do with politics. Few fans know or care about Bruce's politics. He had the same politics in 1979 at the No Nukes concert and in '80 when he slammed Reagan and in '82 when he wrote Nebraska and in '84-85 when he wrote a blistering political attack called Born in the USA, which was misinterpeted by fans and politicians alike. He was filling arenas and stadiums and doing multiple shows in those days. He mocked Reagan's campaign slogan by telling packed audiences, "Morning in America? It's not morning in America, it's like midnight, and there's a bad moon rising!" Reagan got elected anyway and the crowds still rolled in to watch the shows.

And please ask Kelly to post some photos!

The Boss can still rock, but it sure wouldve been nice to hear more of his hits. 10th Avenue Freeze Out, Fire, I'm On Fire, Philadelphia, Glory Days, Hungry Heart, My Hometown, I'm Going Down, or Cover Me wouldve been welcome additions to the set list. No need for Born In the USA because so many people misconstrue what the song title means, just as Ronald Reagan did. He works hard on stage, and his support cast do a great job. Perhaps, one other improvement would be a reduction in price for a concert T-Shirt. $40 for a T-Shirt in these economic times? The Boss uses both our time to expell his political views on stage about the struggle of the working man and war, and that's fine. Follow up then with compassion on the wallet. If Stephon Marbury can make $20 quality basketball shoes, then The Boss can surely come up with a $10 T-Shirt. All said, this was a good show, just wasnt a sing along.

I agree with Billy, would have been nice to hear a few more of the classics. But it was my first Springsteen concert and I was not disappointed at all- just wished I would have known more of the lyrics to sing along to the newer songs.

Have to agree about the t-shirt prices, it is a little hypocritical- but on the other side, was glad to see that he talked up Gleaners Food Bank and people were donating on their way out.

Great entertainment though- the energy was amazing- and Federici seemed to really enjoy being on stage and feeling the love from the audience and bandmates.

This was my fifth Bruce concert and he sure delivered!! I love the favorites too, but I love to learn and experience new songs and the old songs that I've never heard. How fun would it be to always hear the same old thing? Bruce never dissappoints, and he never will. His music reaches into my soul and that is something no other artist can do. I am looking forward the next concert and the next and the next!!

Was I at the same show as Mr. Lindquist and Gman? I thought the show was average at best. I agree with others that it was missing several hits and the t-shirts were too expensive.

He started an hour late and there was nothing in the show to keep me after for the encore so I ended up leaving after Badlands. From the set list it looks like I didn't miss much in the encore either.

Yes, Bruce is a rock legend and I enjoyed the show, but I expected more from the show than I got.

Along with the other songs listed by others that were missing from the set list...where was Thunder Road?

I'll agree that the energy for this show wasn't as high as previous Springsteen shows for me, but I chalk that up to the sparsely-filled upper level at Conseco.

I was okay with the set list being packed with the more obscure gems (compared to his greatest hits). Reason To Believe may very well be the high point for me because of the new arrangement of it.

I don't necessarily think Bruce's politics kept people away in droves last night. Ticket prices may certainly have something to do with it, though. I'll also say this might be my first and last concert at Conseco, but that has nothing to do with Bruce. The acoustics in that place are positively horrendous for a concert.

My fifth concert and fabulous as usual. Sure, he didn't play some songs that I would like to have heard, but I got to hear "Spirits in the night" for the first time:) Thanks to all the other Indy fans who were on your feet,that is half the fun, besides the music of course. My husband seems to forget that I am not the only Bruce "nut" out there:) Wish I didn't have responabilities so we could go to Cincinatti.

I agree with user418. I don't know what concert you other people went to, but I was highly disappointed. I mean he was late, and his playlist was not that great. What happened to all his good songs? I would also agree that the acustics are awful in that place. The best part of the whole show was the fact that I was sitting in the same section as Peyton Manning and got to watch him walk past me a couple of times. I don't think that concert was worth the $89.00 ticket price.

Third time seeing Bruce at Conseco, and the best so far. As someone who obsesses over his nightly set lists, I thought last night's was tremendous. Certain stretches are almost always the same, such as the closing 5 (Devil's Arcade through Badlands). But it's the parts of the show when he mixes it up that make each night unique and special. To get classics like Prove It, Spirit, Sandy, Kitty, and Backstreets (which, surprisingly, he doesn't play that often), not to mention a tour premier of Rendezvous all in one night, is pretty amazing. Considering he's got 30+ years of great songs to pull from, Indy certainly did well. And it was great to see Danny back -- Bruce was definitely feeding off the buzz of having him back on stage.

I don't understand how he isn't happy with our current President. Bush is an extreme left wing liberal. He just writes a check for any problem that crosses his desk. He has increased the size of big governemt and spent tons of money without any thought of consequences or outcome. All political liberal thinking. Guess he wasn't in the "right party"............................may God help us, cause Washington DC has no clue, COngress, Senate, and our President are all extreme liberals.

I've seen Bruce several times. Studied and poured over his concert videos, and what amazes me is the intensity he brings. Sometimes when I'm watching him, I can't tell if I'm seeing a 58 year old man up there, or the 26 year old street punk who just wrote "Born To Run". "Magic" indeed! I'm sure for new fans, some of the bigger hits were missing from last nights set list, but I loved the rare tracks showing up. With a 30 some year career, you can't make everyone happy. And the "show starting on time" issue, I don't think I've been to a show in the last 10 years that has started on time. Danny Federici's appearance made the Indianapolis stop that much more special. I'm amazed by Bruce's ability to make each night's show a unique experience, showing why he's the "Boss"!

I have only attended the Springsteen concerts at Market Square and Hoosier Dome (at the time). However I have followed his career for years. Last night was another awesome show. My wife who does not follow his music had a hard time with lyrics. My 27 year old daughter was on the edge of her seat when she was in it. Bruce never fails to blow the roof off the place, then bring things to a whisper. The show was late but as soon as the lights went down who cared once they heard that unmistaken voice at the mike in the dark. There never will be a tighter band that the E Street band. Both emotionally and musically. Seeing Danny was such a plus. I made an effort to experience all elements of the show as who knows when we will see him live again. Will he tour at 63? I have enjoyed his music for years so I could care less about the set list and what he did or did not do. I came to enjoy a Bruce Springsteen concert, it is not what he does it is the way he does it. Nobody rocks like 'The Boss'.

My 7th show, wife's 13th...and in many ways one of his best ever. The setlist for true fans wasn't just great, it was incredible!! Sandy!! Kitty's Back!!! Spirit in the Night!!! Are you kidding me?! And have you ever seen him more laid-back and just enjoying himself? Other cool images: Clarence sitting lazily on the drum riser. The antics with the mic-stand. Danny's appearance and how the band reacted. Amazing. But our lasting thought is this... we doubt that he'll ever return to Indy. The place was half-filled and the crowd's overall energy level was terribly low. It's really sad. Hopefully the Midwest can realize some redemption in Cincy tomorrow. See you there!!

I have always wanted to see Bruce Springsteen, but I was really disappointed in last night's show. He didn't play any of the songs that made him Bruce Springsteen. I really wish I could get my money back. What a waste of time and money.

Great, great show. I have been to dozens and this was right up there with the best...As for Indy not filling up the Fieldhouse, here is what I think: He has become politically outspoken and Indiana residents don't like left-leaning artists. (see Mellencamp for details) That hurts attendance. So does a $100 ticket. And I can't underestimate the building's poor acoustics. Those who have been to a show at Conseco know it going in that the mix will be wildly inconsistant and generally abysmal. Last night was no exception. Conseco is one of the very last places I elect to see a show, because of that factor... Setlist was outstanding, and in a night of great moments (Danny back, setlist shakeups) one of the best was Bruce genuinely enjoying the young girl who he brought up on stage to dance during Dancing in the Dark. The way he looked at her and encouraged her was like a proud parent would. He pretended to throw her back into the crowd, but instead gently set he back in her place. And then brought her back on stage again during the same song to dance again. Spontaneous moments such as that just add to the legend. As for those not there, you missed it. Too damn bad and no sympathy. The late start time? Get on the web. I knew it was an 8:30 stage time. So must have a lot of people, because it was a late arriving crowd. But I thought those who were there were appreciative. There were roars that made me know people were listening for the right things. Would have loved to have had a full house and more noise, but the performance was brilliant nonetheless and those who will knock it are missing out and have a hidden agenda. Go see 100 shows and tell me who excites, enjoys, has the integrity and brings it every night better the Springsteen. I will answer for you. None do.

I think the unsold seats aren't about politics at all but the following:

1. For hundreds of Indiana public schools, "Spring Break" effectively started March 20th and for the tens of thousands of lower and middle Middle Class families( containing a large block of Springsteen fans), they need that extra day for driving South.

2. Thursday, the 20th was the start of NCAA Men's Basketball's "March Madness" with four Indiana D-1 colleges playing games Thursday and Friday out-of-state. A large percentage of these hoops fans are people whose youth was the 70's and 80's, prime Springsteen years!

3. Last but not least, the upper deck at Conseco absolutely sucks both audio and visual wise for a rock concert. Hoosiers have long ago learned that one might as well be in Siberia as sit in the upper level for a rock concert. Those seats are above the sound and it is a muffled mess up there. I have never have been mad as I was sitting up there for Bob Seger concert in November of 2006.

There are a lot of Beatles/John Lennon fans who don't agree with the late Lennon's politics. I think Spring Breaks, NCAA Tourney with four local schools and the venue kept this show from being more attended.

It was still a fantastic concert of no-frills rock and roll. I didn't mind the lack of "hits" because we heard some wonderful old material that at least I have never seen live.

It is like seeing Paul McCartney, artist like Springsteen and Macca will never please everyone with their concert setlists because their catalog is so extensive. I just want what is played done with passion and spirit and Springsteen gave it everything last night.

I thought the concert totally rocked; well worth the price of admission. Two and one half hours of energy. Didn't miss the sing-a-long oldies. It's about the music and Bruce's commitment to deliver. I probably would of liked the Big Man blowing the sax a little more...but oh well. As far as available seating, everyone knows Conseco is a bad place to see a show (acoustically) so don't waste your money on the cheep seats where you can't see or hear. Political views? Since when did we care what entertainers thought.

Great show from Bruce and Co. The big news was the return of Danny Federici after fighting melanoma (why no pics?). I sensed most of the crowd had no idea who Danny was, or why his return was special. Here's what they said about the show on Backstreets, the Springsteen fan site:

"Now, the thing is, it's unclear how much of the crowd appreciated the gift that was Danny's presence tonight. With only 10,000 fans filling an 18,000 seater, the energy wasn't exactly through the roof as it was, and there was the sense that many in the building weren't quite attuned to what was happening. But the emotions onstage were unmistakable. During "Kitty's Back," the huge smile on Clarence's face as he watched Danny play said it all. To cap off the night, all three keyboard players were there for "American Land," Charlie coming back out to join Roy for the dual accordions, and Danny at his station on the organ. Welcome back, Dan. Hope you'll make a habit of it."

I agree the Indy crowd seemed clueless much of the time, proving once again Indy is not a good town for live shows. The crowds do not engage with the artists and get into the music. They talk through the quiet songs, they only know the hits, they leave before the show ends. Sleepy, lethargic. Anyone in the music industry will tell you Indy has a terrible reputation for attendance and energy and that was cemented last night by the 5,000 empty seats.

Bruce sold out Omaha, so don't blame politics, the economy, ticket prices (comparatively reasonable), spring break, basketball, whatever. Indy is not and never has been a rock and roll town. Yesterday was the first day of spring, and the first nice, sunny evening we've had in a long while. Conseco should have been filled and rocking.

Look at the highway system -- every road passes through Indy. We should get every act on tour! But most bands (especially young ones) prefer to drive on through here rather than stop. If we can't sell out for Springsteen, do you think we'll ever get bands like Radiohead to stop here?

Re: politics. Since when is being pro-habeas corpus and anti-torture a "lefty" view? Seems right in line with our Constitution, a steadfastly non-partisan document.

No Thunder Road? Blasphemy!

This concert was well below average-----my daughter gave me two tickets as a x-mas present and ordered five minutes after they went on sale last Nov. Our seats were on the side in back of the stage in the upper balcony. It started one hour late and there were a ton of good empty seats. The acoustics were so bad up there that we could not understand even one word or lyrics the entire evening. It was pitiful. We left well before it was over. I'm just disgusted that she paid way over $1oo bucks and that's what we got. I even complained at the front desk and got the standard--"I'm sorry".

The two best photo ops from the show were:

1. Danny Federici's return
2. Hannah, the little girl dancing with Bruce

Any chance the Star could put pics of these events on the site?

This was my 23rd Bruce show, and it may be the best show I've ever seen. My first Bruce experience was in 1978, and 30 years later they still are kickin butt! As for you whiners and complainers, you people do not have a clue. The true Bruce fan knows it was agreat show, and another unique performance. If every song you wanted to hear was played, they would have to play till 1am- which Bruce would probobly do. HOw can you complain, especially the encore. It was great seeing Danny back, and we will seeya in Cincy.

Several of these comments are just silly.

There are websites like Backstreets that follow all of Bruce's tours. You can see what time he takes the stage (about 8:30 every night) and what he's been playing. Yes, he changes it up every night, but still plays a lot of the last two albums.

You should expect Bruce to spend 1/2 the concert or so on his new material, and the other half on classics.

Let's see...

Night, Prove it All Night, She's the One, Promised Land, Spirit in the Night, Sandy, Badlands, Backstreets, Kitty's Back, Born to Run and Dancin' in the Dark...

and people say he didn't play his hits? The man's career is far bigger than Born in the USA, which was a big-selling but not very good album from the Springsteen catalogue. Personally, I would have liked more The River, especially Ramrod in place of Dancing the in Dark but at least the pull-the-girl-on-stage moment was evidence of the family-friendly nature of a Springsteen show (this was my eight-year old daughter's third Springsteen show.)

So that's 12 "hits" out of about 25 songs played. And doesn't count his hits this decade (Lonesome Day, Rising, Radio Nowhere) that were played.

I have friends from New Jersey telling me that this Hoosier is an honorary New Jersey resident after that gem of a show last night...

I don't think Spirit, Backstreets, Kitty and Sandy have all been played in the same show in at least thirty years. I was in Milwaukee for the show Monday night, and was stuck listening to My Hometown. Then I returned to my real hometown last night - and it is a "beautiful place to be born" in spite of the brain-drain and lack of good finance jobs that pushed me from Indy to Chicago a decade ago... this show has the potential (especially if a good soundboard recording exists) to be spoken of like the Passaic/ Winterland shows in '78, the New Years' Eve show from Nassua in 1980, and the famous "no songs from Born in the USA show" in LA in 99.

My first show was at the Capitol Theater in Passaic, New Jersey in 1974. I agree with the points made about the acoustics and the energy-level of the crowd at Conseco last night.

But what an outstanding play list and encore! I hadn't heard Kitty's Back or Sandy since that first show over 30 years ago. Sorry some were disappointed but there's so much Bruce juice and so little time!

And politics, please! The rock & roll I grew up with in the 60s and 70s was all about challenging the status quo, not cheerleading for it! Bruce has been consistent through over three decades of fame in supporting the plight of ordinary working Americans and their desires for better lives and a more equitable America that responds to their needs.

I do not understand people complaining of the ticket prices. What automatic Hall of Fame member (inducted at first time eligible) has ticket prices < $90. ($89 face vl) Clapton at Verizon is $175 for the whole lower level. Good point from Dave Lindquinst re the starting time. He actually comes out earlier than many acts that have an opening act. Also Springsteen is NOT an oldies act, jukebox etc so you can relive your youth. His set lists changes every night and he plays his NEW music. Funny how Omaha, NE sells out but Indy does not.

Thanks Bruce for an excellent show in Indy!!

Regarding: This was my 10th Bruce show,

Regarding: The staff at Conseco, Security was misinformed, everyone you asked led you to a different direction to find the section to the floor, let alone the hassle to get a gold band for entry to the floor.

Regarding: Bruce's Indy Star Review, (it stinks)...

Regarding: The Ticket Price,(don't be a cheapskate)...

Regarding: The blue collar night in the red state of Indiana, Springsteen is a democrat & Hillary Clinton will win the nomination...

I wanted to see Springsteen but with it being at Conseco, I had to pass. Like everyone has been saying, the acoustics in that place are terrible. I'm not paying THAT much money for a ticket to THAT place when the sound sucks. Had he been at Verizon Wireless Music Center, I would've been there. Let's hope that the people in charge of the acoustics of the new Lucas Oil Stadium at least get THEM right. I think a Springsteen show would get some seats filled in that place.

This was my first Springsteen concert. At the ctime at the oncert I thought the late start was very rude and even remarked to my wife, perhaps everyone should have left Conseco about 8:30 to make a point, but now after reading the comments, I am satisfied. While I do not agree with many of Bruce's political views, I too do not believe the lack of people was due to politics- between cost, spring break, NCAA and the previously unmentioned Holy Week church services. The one main question I still have unanswered is was that Patty or Soozie Tyrell with the E Street Band. From my seats way in the back and with few closeup large screen videos I could not tell. From websites, they do look alot alike and it says that she quite often fill in. Could someone please confirm. Also, if someone had mentioned that Peyton Manning would be in the audience, the place would have been filled.

rmm500, I was told from another Bruce fan that I met @ Hard Rock Cafe after the show, that Payton Manning was there...

Kudos to Jay_Lo who gets it. I have been a boss fan since 1980 and I am so sick and tired of hearing these BITUSA fans complain all the time. Bruce is much more than that album. He brings an energy night after night after night that very few musicians, young or 58, can. I brought my 15 and 11 year old and they were surprised how hard he brings it for every song...2 1/2 hours and he never let up. If that performance can't pump up Indy than they need to check their pulse. That set list was one the best he has had all tour. My brother-in-law, who also came along to experience Bruce for the first time, gave it a 9 out of 10. He said that he would have given it a 10, but he didn't know enough of the songs to sing along with. That's okay, I can understand that, but at least he recognized the excellent performance that Bruce and the E Street Band put on that night. I have been to at least 15 performances, and as a life long Bruce fan, I give it a definite 10. A great performance is a great performance whether you know the songs or not.

As one reader put it earlier, his music reaches down into my soul...isn't that what you want from music whether it be classical, jazz, R&B, etc.? That is what separates the Britney Spears from the Springsteen's, U2's, and Frank Sinatra's of the world.

hoosierbossfan What a remarkable follow up to Jay_Lo, I got bruce bumps just reading it. God bless you...

Hi Gman, My wife and I meet Bruce and the band after the '78 show when the two dancers from the Red Garter appeared mysterious onstage during 10th Ave Freeze Out". After the show we went to the Red Garter and hung out with the band. Later that night we met Bruce behind the Convention Center. He was leaning up against his beat up tour bus. He said he saw us in the front row and told us we gave him inspiration. Tickets were $7.50. I still have them. The '77 show could be the Playboy story. I was at the show, bad weather freezing rain. Bruce opened with "Night". 31 years later it sounds just as fresh as it did in '77. I don't have the tickets to that show, but they could have been $6.50. Comparing the Chicago show, a few months back, to last night's show. Chicago had 17,000 fans filled to the top. Loudest crowd I've ever heard for a Bruce show and I've seen a few. The intensity level on the stage was the same for both shows. Chicago was Danny's last show until last night. Both shows were emotional. Last night "Kitty's Back" could have been retitled Danny's Back". I didn't consider the politcal backlash for the low attendance last night. I don't really care. I'm there for the show not to count fans. I first saw Bruce in '75 with 800 in attendance. It has been argued that Bruce plays harder when ther are fewer fans. I don't buy it. He plays every show like it's his last. On the set list. For old fans this show was a classic. Bruce has over 250 songs in his catalog, maybe more. I guess it would be a hard task to pick the top 100, but any artist that had only one of these songs could make a good living playing state fairs, tractor pulls, and rib feasts. The crowds would show up and talk through the first hour waiting for the classic. Then the hugs and kisses would start. The smell of weed would be in the air, and the lighters, (opps cellphones), would be held high and the world would be right. Well last night you got at least 15 concerts in 2 1/2 hours.

I'd have been there - I was very excited when the concert was announced - but it was on Maundy (Holy) Thursday. Sorry, but I've got a standing commitment every year on that day.

It's my first show and I loved every minute of it! I was up in the front in the stading floor section. Bruce played with such incredible energy and passion. Great blend of the old and new music. "Magic" is one of my favorites anyway and so it's nice to hear the live performance of several of the songs. Hannah (the adorable dancing young girl who came on stage during "Dancing in the Dark") was a definite a highlight. Bruce really seemed taken by her and brough her on stage for an encore. Other favorites of mine included "Long Way Home", "Last to Die", "Born to Run"(obviously), and the closer "American Land". Great, great show from a true American patriot!

Oh yes, Peyton Manning was there. Sitting (most standing) to our right about 15 feet away, having a good time next to his wife (?). Seems like a real nice guy. His entourage was escorted out right before the last song, to avoid the autograph-seeking mob, I guess.

I find it hard to believe that anyone who saw Bruce in the 70s thought last nights show was good. Pampered 60 year old gazillionaires dont make for very profound songwriters. It was akin to watching Mick Jagger jump around acting like his new material is relevant to anyone. Also, how do you make a show sound that bad in the 21st century? Dont blame Constinko, yes its a tough room, but there have been plenty of great sounding shows in there.

There are 2 good reasons why hes not selling out. The tickets are way overpriced for the setlists hes playing.

Another great thing to mention is that the band played "Rendezvous". According to brucebase that is only the second time they have ever played it live. (The first time is available on the Tracks box.) Please correct me if this is wrong. Anyway, it is a rarity.

I stand by my earlier post that Indy is not a rock and roll town. If it were we would have an arena with good acoustics. The sound situation in Conseco is unacceptable. We knew when the building went up it would host more than basketball games, but apparently no expense or effort were expended on the acoustics. Perhaps the market will force a change if people continue to turn away from shows because of the lousy sound.

At the moment we have two places for acts like Bruce to play: crappy Conseco and Verizon, located on land our community feels will be put to better use as a housing development. The sound in the Hoosier Dome was horrible. I hope the designers considered acoustics when they drew up Lucas Oil. We'll have to wait and see. But if Bruce cannot sell out Conseco, don't expect too many big acts to take a chance on the much larger Lucas when it opens. Maybe Zep or the Stones, but even the Stones did not sell out last time they played here (and they haven't been back since).

For an example of a Midwestern community that cares about music, see Milwaukee. They have set aside primo lakeside real estate for a permanent music facility. Check out Summer Fest this summer for and example of how to do things right. Bruce will be playing there again this summer.

Glad to hear Peyton, a staunch right-winger, managed to enjoy the show!

LNchris

1.Bruce's concert intensitiy and committment has never changed since he first stapped on a guitar. Every night he tries to perform the best show of his career, regardless of the crowd. As time passes the shows of the 70's certainly are special, but he's not letting up.

Bruce is not 60.

To imply his music is irrelevent, suggests you haven't listened to "Magic".

I don't know what the sellout ratio on this tour is but it's high. From reports I've read he's sold out 90% of the tour. Omaha sold out. So your statement he's not selling out is incorrect. Impossible to get a ticket for his international shows. Chicago was packed to the rafters both nights. Oh! he's sold out 3 nights in Giants stadium and they just announced he's playing Gillette stadium this summer.

$89 and $55 prices in today's market is not high. Clapton's getting $200 per. Scaplers are offering to buy those $200 tickets for $475. So imagine what they are charging. Bruce has done a good job in reducing scalping for his shows with the g.a. admission plan and dropping good seats the day of the show.

Standing up for Conseco acostics, puts you in the minority. The time before, when Bruce played Conseco, the sound was just bad. From way back on the floor Thursday night the sound was ok.

standonit11 on Mar 22, '08 at 02:37 PM | Quote | Edit | Delete | Report abuse!

ok hes 58 and a half.

and i wasnt standing up for constinkos acoustics, its a difficult room, but this show sounded awful. i was on the floor right by the soundboard. U2 among other acts has been able to make it sound great in there.

Sounds like I missed an awesome show. Just didn't feel like a taking a chance on Consecos acoustics and having another show ruined. I keep swearing that I'll never go back unless I have floor/lower seating...the uppers suck. I was hoping that Bruce would add Louisville at a later date...Freedom Hall may be old and outdated but that place has the best acoustics...no matter where you're seated...and now they are building a new basketball arena...hope they take concerts into consideration during the building process...

it's shortsighted to note that bruce's politics 'had nothing to do with' the show's attendance...

personally, i've seen bruce at market square 2x, the hoosier dome and soldier field - and own all the recordings up to and including the rising plus a few live and studio bootlegs.

i ceased listening to bruce in 2004 and wouldn't consider going to see a show if someone handed me a free ticket and backstage passes... solely due to his far-left boilerplate politics.

& i'm guessing i'm not the only one.

Imho, not going to see Bruce or anybody because you don't like their politics is short-sighted. My father-in-law is way to far right for my liking, but I still like and talk to him. We just don't talk politics.

11,000 !!!! for the almighty Bruce(totally over rated) Springsteen. If tickets were $.89, that would still be too high for this self absorbed yahoo.

What a show in Indy. I am the one with the "PROVE IT PLEASE" sign. Bruce was in great spirits and very into the crowd. Last night in Cincy(my hometown) it was a bit rushed but when he came back out and did Kitty's Back made it all better.

LOVE YA BRUCE!!!!!!!!!!

This was my 7th Springsteen show and I thought he and the E Streeters were in top form Thursday night. Lofgren's solo was razor sharp and it was heartwarming to see Danny back and the love from the band for him.

I have a couple theories why attendance was down. 1. Nobody wants to pay those prices for the upper level/behind the stage in Conseco. As it was our seats were club level and halfway back and we had no problems with the quality of the sound at all. For those people who shelled out money for those seats in '99 and '02 and did not come back in '08, I do not blame them. Now and days people's financial situations have changed and that is too much money not to be able to hear and enjoy the concert. And this leads to Theory 2. The tickets went on sale 2-3 weeks before Christmas. I have a family and we are down to one income. My Christmas present from my husband was my tickets. Personally, at that time of year, I do not have $200+ for myself. When you have kids as every parent knows sacrifices have to be made.

I did notice a number of kids in the crowd and that was fun to see. I thought Hannah was really cute and it was great Springsteen chose her. I will go back to see Springsteen again and I am begging anyone who happens to be lucky enough to get close to the stage, have as sign that says "Rosie, can you come out tonight?" I have never seen "Rosalita" live.

P.S. Omaha has not had a Springsteen concert in 30 years and when you consider the reputation of Conseco, it is easy see why Omaha sold out and Indy did not.

Wow, what a night. The Chicago show I saw on 10/21 just got buried under the blistering performance that Bruce and the Band put on at Conseco. The new material worked much better for me and some key changes were made to the setlist. Call it addition by subtraction.

Danny was back on stage (he's currently on a break for the Tour undergoing treatment for melanoma) and his presence lifted the whole Band, Bruce especially. I was in Section 18, stage left, about 12 rows off the floor and the moment when Danny came out and was introduced before "The Promised Land" will stand as one of the great emotional high points for me after 41 shows. The show took off like a rocket from that moment on and we were treated to plenty of gems throughout the night. And it must be said once again, NOBODY works a crowd like Bruce Springsteen. Some personal highlights:

*Night--Great opener. Before going into this and during Bruce's "introduction" he says of the Band, "Coming to you from the Red Garter..." Bruce and Clarence visited in the club in '77 while they were here to play the Convention Center. Great start!

*Gypsy Biker--Hot, scorching guitar duel from Steve and Bruce, and Steve sounded great on the acoustic during the intro.

*Rendezvous--As requested and this was a blast. I last saw this on the Reunion Tour and it's been too long. Steve was diggin' on this one!

*Because The Night--A first for me. My buddy and I were hoping for this and they didn't disappoint. Nils was ALL OVER his solo. This baby cooks.

*Promised Land--Danny's first song of the night and appropriately so. The tears were welling up a bit, and what an affirmation.

*Spirit--Unreal. Danny was really shining on this as Bruce goes "old-school" on us. Before going into the bridge Bruce placed the heel of his right boot on one of the monitors and stretched out his leg in preparation for the kicks he did in time with Max's snare/cymbal crashes.

*Sandy--Fuhgedabowdit, another first for me. Stick a fork in me cause I'm done. Bruce says they can't let Danny go without playing this one and when I saw Bruce with the acoustic I knew it had to be this beauty. Danny comes down front as he and the Band play a gorgeous, hearfelt version. We're makin' memories here, sportsfans.

*Devil's Arcade--Another emotional powerhouse for me. What a killer version with nice flourishes from Soozie. The dramatic tension of that last verse builds and builds to the hopeful ending, with Max and Bruce locked into the outro. And hot work from Bruce on the Fender. "The beat of your heart, the beat of your heart..." Damn.

*Long Walk Home--I love this so much and was tearing up before Bruce sang a word. This arrangement is outstanding. The intro and outro have really expanded since last fall and Steve's vocals on the outro work great.

*Backstreets/Kitty's Back--Unbelievable 1-2 punch to start the encores and this was all about Danny. Nils made a point to hang out on Danny's riser on a couple of occasions and during "Kitty" Bruce went over to Danny and said "Go man, go!" during Danny's solo. Bruce was grinning ear to ear in front of Danny and in a sweet gesture smacked the side of the B-3 before heading back to his mic, as if to say, "I can't pat you on the back Dan, but we're all so glad you're here with us tonight". "Kitty" rocked and swung, and Bruce really leaned into his solo.

*Dancing--Bruce brings the little girl on stage not once, but twice to do some boogalooing with him. Priceless!

Indy is probably going to be my last show of the Tour and if that's indeed the case I couldn't have ended on a higher note. Bruce and the Band continue to make a believer out of me, and at the end of the day what more can you ask from Rock 'N' Roll?

I don't think his politics have changed much over the years, but it's possible that yours have. I've never been a big fan of his music, but even I've known from the time I was a tiny Drinky that he was on the left and not afraid to show it. I seem to recall him telling Reagan to stop using "Born In The USA" because Reagan was "bad for working people".

All of you making rude comments about the Boss are crazy! First of all if you didn't go to the show you shouldn't be saying anything at all. Bruce and the band killed it Thursday night! If you are a true fan you loved every minute of it. My only complaint was that he cut "Growin Up" for "Rendezvous". I know it was a treat to hear it, but "Growin Up" is a special one for me. All of you complaining about him not playing "hit" songs are obviously not Bruce fans. I wasn't even born until '81 and I knew every song he played! It was a great night!!!

Let's see...Magic is the new album, hence the inclusion of those songs. As far as the rest of the set list, the band's catalog goes back to the early 1970's, so only so many songs can fit. I'm always glad to see a band that doesn't play the same set night after night. Of course, there are songs that show up fairly regularly on the tour, but the fact that something different might pop up helps explain all those people who are following the tour (besides recognizing that the spirit of rock and roll always struts down E Street). As for $40 t-shirts, I noticed that those were the XXL shirts...the others were $35. I'm wondering what concerts you've been attending the past couple years where the shirts were significantly cheaper in price.

<>

every show that isnt a money grubbing oldies act. do you people even see shows?

this is the same group thats going to tell us how good the eric clapton nap was this coming may. . . .

Sorry my post is late, spring break. Just now getting back into the swing of things.

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN AND THE E STREET BAND !!!!!!!!!!!!

The Indianapolis show marked my 134th Bruce concert since 1978 when it all started at the young age of 14.

Thursday nights show was OVER THE TOP. With Bruce opening the event with a great rendition of Night.

What I have notice the past few E street band tours, is that on the second leg of the tour Bruce has been opening the show with a different song most of the times. He did this on the Rising tour, and doing it again on the Magic Tour.

Getting back to the show, Bruce was in very high energy. 2 of my friends witnessed there first Bruce show. I hope they can no understand just a little bit of what Bruce does as a showman on that stage.

Bruce show did work the crowd that night, once again stepping back to "old school" and taking sign requests as he did on the rising tour, in Cincinnati's, Oh in 2002. Indianapolis, got PROVE IT ALL NIGH & RENDEVOUS. I was standing in the front row in front of Steves mike, when Bruce notice the bright orange sign asking for a rendevous in Indianapolis, from a nameless female fan from Chicago. She was standing behind me, when I put her in front of me, so she and Bruce could have there moment together....LOL.....Use the women when you can boys. Bruce took the sign and lead the band into the song. Coming over to sing to the young lady several times, and making eye contact with her. So I got to see the Boss up front and close once again.

The rumors of Danny returning, was running strong before the show in the "PIT" but I did not think it would happen. then I ran into the band doctor, and I started to think well, maybe this could happen. SURPRISE Danny walks out during the show, and the rest is all history.

The encores were awesome, Bruce pulling out Kitty's back once again. Bruce has been pulling out his old school material in the past 2 E Street band tours. rising and now Magic.

I am heading to the following venues later this month, and hope to be in the "pit again". Charlotte, Greensboro, Orlando, Atlanta, and Charlottesville.
ducci

Does anyone know if a dvd is being made? I have the dvd from New York and Barcelona. I have told my kids, when, and if they have to put me in a home, that is fine as long as I have my Bruce concert dvd's.:)