Did that headline get your attention? It’s the kind of question you’ll either agree with, slightly ponder or vehemently deny. But no matter your answer, you have to admit that the current crop of Rock bands isn’t what it used to be. Luckily, Pearl Jam is still rocking with the same raw energy that helped them burst onto the global music scene way back in 1991. And anyone who has attended a Pearl Jam concert in the last decade can attest to that.

 

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This week, Pearl Jam returned home to Seattle for #TheHomeShows, the first stop in a four-city ballpark tour that is also a vehicle to raise lots and lots of money for important causes that are close to the band’s heart. And I was fortunate enough to go to the first show on Wednesday, August 8th!

 

Pearl Jam playing for their hometown fans is always a special experience, but seeing them at Safeco Field (the home of the Seattle Mariners) was next level. The band took the stage around 8:30, a little later than advertised but due to the fact they had to wait for the Safeco roof to open. And once they took the stage it was 3+ hours of pure Rock ‘N Roll.

 

They played a whopping 34 songs (!!!), which included a great mix of hit songs (“Even Flow”, “Better Man”, “Do The Evolution”), deep cuts (“Low Light”, “Let Me Sleep”) and cover songs (Neil Young’s “Keep On Rockin’ In A Free World”, The White Stripes “We’re Going to Be Friends” and The Beatles “Help!”). It was a blistering set that also knew when to slow down, and even though a few Ten diehards were upset they didn’t get to hear “Jeremy”, it showcased the variety and depth of their entire career. Check out the full setlist below:

 

SEATTLE. NIGHT 1. #THEHOMESHOWS.

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Epic setlist, right? Need more proof of Pearl Jam’s rock credentials? Check out some video from the concert:

 

 

One of the coolest moments was when Eddie Vedder started talking about the influence great teachers have on youth, and he then had his daughters bring out their favourite teachers as he serenaded them with an acoustic version of The White Stripes “We’re Going to Be Friends”. It was a beautiful moment.

 

 

I could go on and on with great moments from the show.

 

Are Pearl Jam the last great Rock band? For all those in attendance for #TheHomeShows, I think the answer is a resounding yes. And if you’ve always liked the band but never seen PJ perform live, I’d highly recommend you check them out if you ever have the chance.

 

FULL DISCLOSURE: Pearl Jam was my favourite band growing up and I’ve seen them in concert 7 times.

 

What band would you want to see live in concert multiple times?

Filed under: pearl jam, The Home Shows