Arcade Fire played Madison Square Garden (pics, setlist, review)
Arcade Fire played Madison Square Garden Tuesday to a packed crowd, as part of their world tour in support of this year’s Everything Now. The band’s performance was notable for its unique presentation, with the stage — made to look like a boxing/wrestling ring — placed in the middle of the arena and each member facing a different side of the stage. Commuting to the theme, each member of Arcade Fire was humorously introduced on the jumbotron, pro-wrestling style.
Upon climbing onto the stage, the band immediately launched into the triumphant “Everything Now,” as a disco ball was lowered into the arena. Much of the band’s setlist focused on songs from the new record, including the groovy “Electric Blue,” and the dramatic “Put Your Money on Me.” There were plenty of older favorites too, including “No Cars Go,” “Neighborhood #1 (Tunnels),” and “The Suburbs,” the latter of which Win Butler dedicated to those in Houston, Texas recovering from Hurricane Harvey, as he called on those in the audience to donate to those in need.
The whole show was heavy on audience interaction. As the rest of the band tore into “Reflektor” on stage, Régine Chassagne went deep into the audience and formed a dance circle with several fans. Likewise, Win Butler wandered through the crowd and shook hands during ballad “We Don’t Deserve Love.” Joined by openers Preservation Jazz Hall Band, the night ended with an emotional performance of “Wake Up,” which the band blended with a cover of Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me.”
Aside from Preservation Jazz Hall Band, who played a highly energetic and fun set to start off the night, legendary DJ Grandmaster Flash also opened, playing many songs in tribute to musicians who have passed, including Whitney Houston, David Bowie, and George Michael.
Check out pictures of the show in the gallery above, and videos and Arcade Fire’s MSG setlist, below.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LsAgr-JsPQA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Le78MQuZDvo
Setlist – Arcade Fire @ Madison Square Garden 9/12/17
Everything Now
Signs of Life
Rebellion (Lies)
Here Comes the Night Time
Haïti
No Cars Go
Electric Blue
Put Your Money on Me
Neon Bible
Neighborhood #1 (Tunnels)
The Suburbs
The Suburbs (Continued)
Ready to Start
Sprawl II (Mountains Beyond Mountains)
Reflektor
Afterlife
Infinite Content
Creature Comfort
Neighborhood #3 (Power Out)
ENCORE
We Don’t Deserve Love
Everything Now (Continued)
Wake Up/Stand By Me (cover)
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photos by Greg Cristman
