If the Greek Theatre Berkeley had a roof, Florence + The Machine would have blown it off

Florence + The Machine with The Ghost of a Saber Tooth Tiger //
Greek Theatre – U.C. Berkeley
October 22nd, 2015 //

Florence + The Machine spent two nights at the Greek Theatre Berkeley last week, and what a show it was on Thursday evening. Here are some thoughts from the performance:

• When I arrive at the venue, the place is packed. Opening the show, The Ghost of a Sabre Tooth Tiger have just started playing to a near-capacity crowd. At least at this point, there is still some room to walk around.

• The Ghost of a Sabre Tooth Tiger seems to be an odd choice to open for Florence + The Machine. Psychedelic and much less refined, the audience appeared rather indifferent while watching the band, which was founded by Sean Lennon (son of John) and Charlotte Kemp Muhl.

• The pit is closed for photo access, so looks like I will be shooting this show from the back of the bowl.

• More people file in, and there’s a ton of security. Any space open is quickly occupied. It’s like musical chairs when the music stops.

• You might already know this, but Florence Welch has an amazing voice.

• You know those art installations made of hundreds of metal squares that move with the wind? They have those that are 30 feet by 30 feet, and they look pretty cool as the band continues to play.

• I have not seen this many people at the Greek before. Everyone is loving the show.

• Welch does a lap around the inside ring of the bowl, stopping briefly at the sound stage. What a cool moment.

• Damn, Welch has an amazing voice.