Article: Manchester - Manchester Arena (July 28, 2012) post-show

[davidt]

You can view the page at http://www.morrissey-solo.com/content/855-Manchester-Manchester-Arena-(July-28-2012)-post-show

[Anonymous]

SUNDAY
SPEEDWAY
PLEASE
PARIS
ILL

more to come

[Miss Garden]

https://twitter.com/PeteAdams/status/229327956705689600/photo/1

[sugarone]

Just amazing
Almost crying on please please and on still Ill
Lovely

[Anonymous]

i am wondering what the set-list will look like :)

[Anonymous]

Truly truly disappointed. bad set, bad sound. no atmosphere. complete waste of money

[Because]

Fantastic, brilliant, wonderful night! :D

He was in good spirits and excellent voice and the crowd were great (no worries about lack of tickets, looked filled to the rafters!). Set sagged a bit in the middle with a few news songs and To Give but the rest was fab - Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want was divine! And, of course, there were a few asides about the Olympics/Jubilee which were warmly welcomed ;) Thank you Morrissey!

[Miss Garden]

https://twitter.com/dobcrossdaz/status/229331236043243520/photo/1
https://twitter.com/dobcrossdaz/status/229327229665042432/photo/1
https://twitter.com/LivManchon/status/229334484422623232/photo/1
http://instagram.com/p/No_1_Xlr2T/
http://yfrog.com/o0enjbaj

[Anonymous]

Well, I quite enjoyed myself. He seemed quite chatty and happy, and I like the fact that he sang Still Ill, as that's one of my faves.
Couldn't make out what was on the gang's t shirts though, can someone who was at the front of the mosh pit fill us in?
It was the longest concert he has done actually that I have been to, and I have been to quite a few... They also threw lots of people off guard starting well before 9pm!
Erm, was it Boz dressed in woman's attire? Referred to by Moz as 'Gaynor Tension' ??
Im a happy bunny, even though my ears are shot and me back is fecked...

Much luv to all Mozites...

Harpurhey Harlot x

[Anonymous]

decent set list but not a crowd pleaser or one to get you bouncin'

highlights were still ill and last night i dreamt.

glad to hear maladjusted but it sounded awful, gutted no alma matters

[Anonymous]

Well, I quite enjoyed myself. He seemed quite chatty and happy, and I like the fact that he sang Still Ill, as that's one of my faves.
Couldn't make out what was on the gang's t shirts though, can someone who was at the front of the mosh pit fill us in?
It was the longest concert he has done actually that I have been to, and I have been to quite a few... They also threw lots of people off guard starting well before 9pm!
Erm, was it Boz dressed in woman's attire? Referred to by Moz as 'Gaynor Tension' ??
Im a happy bunny, even though my ears are shot and me back is fecked...

Much luv to all Mozites...

Harpurhey Harlot x

We enjoyed ourselves. Sound not too good, but never is at MEN. Can't remember the set list. The t-shirts were the "We Hate William and Kate" ones. Did the three new songs - cue everyone going back and forward for drinks. Said that he hadn't been invited to the Olympic ceremony as his smile was too sincere. Almost missed the start, he came on at 8.35 so all done and over for 10.

[gareth]

I had a great time, though I was positioned near the front, not too far from some drunk woman (i'm sure she's nice enough when she hasn't had the whole bottle) who nearly had Kristeen Young in tears. The crowd seemed split on whether that was a good thing.

As for the man himself I personally thought he was on top form, in excellent voice, quite chatty and happy to be home. It did become a bit subdued half way through, but picked up again at the end. He could've mixed the playlist up a bit more, but from past playlists, you know what to expect really. I think Moz sensed during a song or two that the crowd had faded away somewhat, but that wasn't the case for long and all in all I thought it was a night to remember.

Skipped the aftershow stuff, though would've probably checked places out if I hadn't gone to the concert on my own.

[swiss]

Thought it was average to be honest. The start was good but the middle was too flat and too long. By the time speedway came on, people were leaving.

The setlist was lacklustre in my opinion. 16000 people are not all huge morrissey fans and Scandinavia,action is my middle name, to give is the reason I live together with too many songs from the last album equalled an average night. I have been to 15 or so concerts and this was up there with the worst.

What was with the 8.35 start? Unheard of and caught hundreds out.

The meat is murder footage is also too over the top in my opinion.

[Anonymous]

I had a great time, though I was positioned quite near the front, not too far from some drunk woman (i'm sure she's nice when she hasn't had the whole bottle) who nearly had Kristeen Young in tears . The crowd seemed split on whether that was a good thing. Also there was a handsome blonde guy near the front row, who I almost spoke to as we filed out, but didn't. For some reason that bugged me. I should interact more.

As for the man himself I personally thought he was on top form, in excellent voice, quite chatty and happy to be home. It did seem to become a bit subdued half way through, but picked up again at the end. He could've mixed the playlist up a bit more, but from past playlists, you know what to expect really. I think Moz sensed during a song or two that the crowd had faded away a bit, but that wasn't the case for long and all in all I thought it was a night to remember.

Skipped the aftershow stuff, though would've probably gone if I didn't go to the concert on my own.

KY in tears?? Why?
D:

[Anonymous]

Oh, and at the end he dedicated the show in memory of someone (couldn't catch name)

[Anonymous]

The first show I've been to at a large venue for years and I can honestly say I'm so thoroughly impressed. Morrissey was fantastic and seemed in an excellent mood. It would have been nice if he had played a few older songs though, especially for the sake of my younger brother who didn't know some of the newer stuff. All in all a brilliant night though.

[Anonymous]

Well, I quite enjoyed myself. He seemed quite chatty and happy, and I like the fact that he sang Still Ill, as that's one of my faves.
Couldn't make out what was on the gang's t shirts though, can someone who was at the front of the mosh pit fill us in?
It was the longest concert he has done actually that I have been to, and I have been to quite a few... They also threw lots of people off guard starting well before 9pm!
Erm, was it Boz dressed in woman's attire? Referred to by Moz as 'Gaynor Tension' ??
Im a happy bunny, even though my ears are shot and me back is fecked...

Much luv to all Mozites...

Harpurhey Harlot x

We enjoyed ourselves. Sound not too good, but never is at MEN. Can't remember the set list. The t-shirts were the "We Hate William and Kate" ones. Did the three new songs - cue everyone going back and forward for drinks. Said that he hadn't been invited to the Olympic ceremony as his smile was too sincere. Almost missed the start, he came on at 8.35 so all done and over for 10.

[On-tour-stories]

Without doubt the worst Morrissey concert i've ever seen....I missed the start as it started too early,so thank you for that Morrissey.

That set list was just appalling,what is he doing? it was horrible,i wanted to dance and enjoy it but it was the same old rubbish and it was rubbish...

It was flat all around me,the crowd were up for it but it was a complete let down,Speedway was destroyed the band were awful(again),it was depressing...thousands turned out and were subject to that,i was shouting for a better set list but it just got worse and worse...to cap it all i'm off to Edinburgh,the only saving grace is that i never paid for parking..

I'm just angry,i look forward to this but i should have learnt my lesson from the last couple of years,it could have been great but it was the opposite..Why,Why,Why .? all the beautiful songs he has and he plays,Carol and Scandinavia and Black cloud...If he can't be bothered than why should i?

[Anonymous]

Loved it and my son loved it too. I was up in the rafters like the balcony fool and the great man sounded wonderful. My skin tingled hearing I know its over live. I left with a grin on my face and my son swore next time we would be at the front. 2 generations left happy :)

[ksenalex]

!!!!!!

[swiss]

Couldnt agree more on tour. The morrissey can't do wrong brigade will disagree but overall it was flat. 2002 Blackburn seems a very long time ago.

[WhalleyRange]

My last Morrissey gig, end of.

[Anonymous]

Who did Morrissey dedicate the show to towards the end saying something like hope we always be apart?

[jason-uk]

just got back to new brighton,,,,its always a pleasure of course but i did think given it was manchester and his only gb gig it was rather lacklustre,,,moments of brilliance but rather too much padding and songs that fail to ignite....im left with several questions,,,,what was on the t shirts?...who is john mcbeef?or whoever it was that he said it was dedicated to?,,,,,why on earth was boz boorer dressed like a really bad trannie?good pun though,,,gaynor tension=gain attention.....also who were the 2 playboy types shown in the still on the backdrop?.................i hope morrissey comes to liverpool again ,,and i look forward to new material from a man who when firing on 2 cylinders is still way better than anything else out there,,,x

[Anonymous]

Odd comments here. Not flat at all, Morrissey very chatty, very happy, very up. Declaring his love for the crowd, pledging never to be further from us, even a stage invader (wearing a 'we hate will and kate' shirt just like the band' managing to traverse the big arena gap. Lots of fun.

[farley]

I heard someone else complain about the meat is murder footage when leaving, saying it was over the top. The footage is reality though, and expected given he's such an advocate for peta.

He just wouldn't be the morrissey we love if he didn't give his honest opinion. Surely that's one of the main reasons his fans still love him is the fact he probably the only artist that says his mind regardless of the backlash.

I did think some of tonight setlist couldve been better, but to be honest, having driven over 200 miles to see him I came out on a massive high having loved every minute. At times the crowd did seem bored, but I didn't care, was happy to see him live and I enjoy seeing any of his songs slightly differently live. Would stay at home with my headphones in otherwise.

Wish I was the guy he pulled up on stage for a hug. Lucky lucky man.

[Anonymous]

I hope by the time he starts his U.S. tour & gets to L.A. he will have completely changed the setlist. He's played L.A. & surrounding SoCal area too often in the last few years to play the same stale songs. I hope but won't hold my breath. But I will hold a tomato to throw if it is the same ol same ol.

[WhalleyRange]

Before People Are The Same Everywhere who did he say had been sacked?

[Anonymous]

Before People Are The Same Everywhere who did he say had been sacked?

Really dislike People Are The Same - it sounds like some happy clappy evangelical Christian song... What was going on when he wrote that?

[coxsparra]

First post so, Hello..:)

SETLIST:

You Have Killed Me
Everyday Is Like Sunday
You're The One For Me, Fatty
How Soon Is Now?
(The Smiths song)
Speedway
I Know It's Over
(The Smiths song)
Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me
(The Smiths song)
Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want
(The Smiths song)
Let Me Kiss You
I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris
To Give (The Reason I Live)
(Frankie Valli cover)
Meat Is Murder
(The Smiths song)
Maladjusted
Scandinavia
Action Is My Middle Name
When Last I Spoke To Carol
Black Cloud
Encore:
Still Ill

[Anonymous]

For those complaining about the 'Meat is Murder' footage, it's REALITY of how meat comes on your plate, it's not the glorified adverts of the Big Mac and the KFC. There is animal suffering, it's not "over the top" - it would be over the top if it was fiction, but Morrissey is showcasing a reality that no commercial channel would ever document, that people don't seem to understand. The complainers are clearly ignorant.

Well done Morrissey, excellent gig.

[andybardsley]

Really enjoyed the gig, some great Moz banter about the royal family and Olympics. I thought the set seemed longer too, but my memory fails me. First 4 were You Have Killed Me, Everyday Is Like Sunday, You're The One For Me, Fatty and How Soon Is Now. Got a few pics;
http://instagram.com/p/NpCaLZvEPb/
http://instagram.com/p/NpCkcqPEPl/
http://instagram.com/p/NpCzt7PEPw/
http://instagram.com/p/NpC6IWvEP1/
http://instagram.com/p/NpDEAMvEAD/

[Anonymous]

Anyone know why Boz dragged up?

[Because]

Hello coxsparra, think they're the right songs but definately not in the right order!

[Iarwain]

Just got back and I thought it was a brilliant gig. I was literally right next to the drunk woman, luckily she shut up when Moz came on. Setlist was nice and varied, would have liked to hear Cemetry Gates, The Queen is Dead and a few others, but you can't get all of 'em in there. Speedway wasn't great, which is a shame because it's one of my favourites, but Still Ill was incredible. And so were Please Please Please and I Know It's Over. He seemed nice and chatty, managed to shake his hand twice which was brilliant, one lad got up on stage and hugged him. Oh and I remember him saying "Wherever you may roam, there's no place like... Hulme", which made me laugh. At one point he passed the mic to the audience and about 4 or 5 people passed it down the front and said something or other. I could have grabbed it too but couldn't think of anything witty to say in time!

Not the best Moz gig I've been to, I think Bradford last year was better, but it was a great spectacle seeing him in front of such a huge crowd, it really was packed. And I can now say I've seen Boz in drag. Is that a good thing? Who knows...

[WhalleyRange]

Some nice t shirts, including one of a Manchester United player [probably Best] but with Morrissey's head on..sold out before I had the chance to buy it. Also one of him as a teenager.

[WhalleyRange]

Anyone know why Boz dragged up?

Is he a transvestite or something?

[Jamie]

Black Cloud as the set closer? I hope there is some new blood in the set list before the next leg in the fall. Time to curate some other songs languishing in his archives and put some of these others away. And this set list would seem to suffer from a (pardon the phrase) saggy back end - too many "slowies" all in a row. This was noticeable in some of the shows last year, too. And he has historically tended to be an impeccable judge of "ebb and flow" of his live shows.

I know Morrissey feels passionate about Meat is Murder and exposing the audience to the PETA PSA footage - but, as a long-time fan and repeat concertgoer, it's hard to not think: "He could have fit two other great songs in that space." It's his prerogative, of course, but at what price? It's a bit shocking to read of hearing people heading for the exits early at a Morrissey show, period - let alone in Manchester!

[Fulham Road Lights]

Apart from the music, the best bit for me was when M. said he hadn't been invited to the Olympic opening ceremony because his smile is too sincere! Cracked me up!

[Anonymous]

Well, I quite enjoyed myself. He seemed quite chatty and happy, and I like the fact that he sang Still Ill, as that's one of my faves.
Couldn't make out what was on the gang's t shirts though, can someone who was at the front of the mosh pit fill us in?
It was the longest concert he has done actually that I have been to, and I have been to quite a few... They also threw lots of people off guard starting well before 9pm!
Erm, was it Boz dressed in woman's attire? Referred to by Moz as 'Gaynor Tension' ??
Im a happy bunny, even though my ears are shot and me back is fecked...

Much luv to all Mozites...

Harpurhey Harlot x

Me and my bruv where right down the front in the pit, still feeling it now! the t-shirts had pictures of william & kate and said WE HATE WILLIAM & KATE And indeed it was Boz/Gaynor I have to agree with you it was the longest set I have seen moz do and one of his bet. Top atmosphere and lots of people trying to get on stage at the end welcome home morrissey!

[On-tour-stories]

Black Cloud as the set closer? I hope there is some new blood in the set list before the next leg in the fall. Time to curate some other songs that languishing in his archives and put some of these others away. This set list would seem to suffer from a (pardon the phrase) saggy back end - too many "slowies" all in a row.

I know Morrissey feels passionate about Meat is Murder and exposing the audience to the PETA PSA footage - but, as a long-time fan and repeat concertgoer, it's hard to not think: "He could have fit two other great songs in that space." It's his prerogative, of course, but at what price? It's a bit shocking to read of hearing people heading for the exits early at a Morrissey show, period - let alone in Manchester!

Really? i wasn't shocked at all,in fact i was just surprised that more people never left early...it really was that bad.

You can't fool all the people,he has a back catalogue to die for and i would have died for Interesting drug or I'd love to but all we got served was the left overs from someone else's party...

[SimonM]

I must take blame for part of the 'bad setlist' shown to those who didn't go, I've been editing it on setlist.fm tonight, really looking to see if there were any surprises in the set - being Manchester n'all. I've only gone by what fans have said on Twitter, so I don't have the correct order.

I think I have all the songs now, just a lack of order. If anyone could help that'd be brilliant. Hope you all enjoyed yourselves tonight, despite the early start/number of lesser-known songs etc.

[Anonymous]

Morrissey referred to Boz in his band intro with a womans name. . . A bet prehaps?

Nice for Morrissey to play a local gig, he's been seen quite a lot around altrincham recently, so he can just jump on a tram home from Victoria.

[Because]

I must take blame for part of the 'bad setlist' shown to those who didn't go, I've been editing it on setlist.fm tonight, really looking to see if there were any surprises in the set - being Manchester n'all. I've only gone by what fans have said on Twitter, so I don't have the correct order.

I think I have all the songs now, just a lack of order. If anyone could help that'd be brilliant. Hope you all enjoyed yourselves tonight, despite the early start/number of lesser-known songs etc.

I've got a decentish memory, I'll see what I can do with it ;) Good on you anyway!

[SimonM]

I've got a decentish memory, I'll see what I can do with it ;) Good on you anyway!

Cheers! Didn't want people slating him for closing with When Last I Spoke To Carol or something ridiculous because I hadn't put it in the right order :lbf:

[Anonymous]

Fantastic, brilliant, wonderful night! :D

He was in good spirits and excellent voice and the crowd were great (no worries about lack of tickets, looked filled to the rafters!). Set sagged a bit in the middle with a few news songs and To Give but the rest was fab - Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want was divine! And, of course, there were a few asides about the Olympics/Jubilee which were warmly welcomed ;) Thank you Morrissey!

Really really disappointed ,Manchester deserves much more . An early start so missed 20 mins and an Encore of Still Ill was just not enough considering the back catalogue.

Took my son after years of listening to Morrissey and he was gutted.

[Miss Garden]

http://youtu.be/sTgOHDv_BQs

[farley]

Gave me the biggest smile when he came on singing patti smiths horses.

I would love a tour of his greatest and biggest hits like everyone, but he wants a record deal, so he needs to play his new songs with them. We all wish it was '92 again, but we'll have to suffice watching the videos of those days, and I'm more than happy going to his gigs hearing whatever he plays.

[Because]

Cheers! Didn't want people slating him for closing with When Last I Spoke To Carol or something ridiculous because I hadn't put it in the right order :lbf:

Haha, as if anyone here would lash out in such a way... Added Ouija Board & Far-off Places and switched them around a bit, looks OK now


You Have Killed Me
Everyday Is Like Sunday
You're The One For Me, Fatty
How Soon Is Now?
I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris
Ouija Board, Ouija Board
Maladjusted
When Last I Spoke To Carol
Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me
People Are The Same Everywhere
I Know It's Over
To Give (The Reason I Live)
Scandinavia
Black Cloud
Action Is My Middle Name
I Will See You In Far-Off Places
Meat Is Murder
Let Me Kiss You
Speedway
Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want

Still Ill

[andybardsley]

Some nice t shirts, including one of a Manchester United player [probably Best] but with Morrissey's head on..sold out before I had the chance to buy it. Also one of him as a teenager.

Said t shirt; http://t.co/goblRb1f
Presumably it was a one off for tonight's gig?

[Anonymous]

Self indulgent set list and too short, i feel cheated of 50 quid!

[WhalleyRange]

Said t shirt; http://t.co/goblRb1f
Presumably it was a one off for tonight's gig?

Yeah probably, might become pretty collectable.
Oh well, I'm a blue anyway. :o

[andybardsley]

Yeah probably, might become pretty collectable.
Oh well, I'm a blue anyway. :o

Haha, I had to have it being a red. Morrissey + MUFC = :D

[josephaline]

Thought it was average to be honest. The start was good but the middle was too flat and too long. By the time speedway came on, people were leaving.

The setlist was lacklustre in my opinion. 16000 people are not all huge morrissey fans and Scandinavia,action is my middle name, to give is the reason I live together with too many songs from the last album equalled an average night. I have been to 15 or so concerts and this was up there with the worst.

What was with the 8.35 start? Unheard of and caught hundreds out.

The meat is murder footage is also too over the top in my opinion.


So the meat is murder footage is too over the top in your opinion......why?

[Miss Garden]

The best pic ever

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=477376015606571&set=pb.129276667083176.0.1343519470&type=1&theater

[Anonymous]

Oh, and at the end he dedicated the show in memory of someone (couldn't catch name)

John McBeath, a longtime promoter from Manchester who worked for SJM and passed away earlier this year. Very classy of Moz to dedicate the show to his memory.

[Anonymous]

I had a great time, though I was positioned near the front, not too far from some drunk woman (i'm sure she's nice enough when she hasn't had the whole bottle) who nearly had Kristeen Young in tears. The crowd seemed split on whether that was a good thing. Also there was a handsome/shy looking blonde guy near the front row, who I almost spoke to as we filed out, but didn't. For some reason that bugged me. I should interact more. Awkward me.

As for the man himself I personally thought he was on top form, in excellent voice, quite chatty and happy to be home. It did become a bit subdued half way through, but picked up again at the end. He could've mixed the playlist up a bit more, but from past playlists, you know what to expect really. I think Moz sensed during a song or two that the crowd had faded away somewhat, but that wasn't the case for long and all in all I thought it was a night to remember.

Skipped the aftershow stuff, though would've probably gone if I hadn't go to the concert on my own.

why was KY in tears? Being heckled? It's nice to know Morrissey was in good form, the pix posted so far are great and much appreciation to the posters of those!

[Miss Garden]

http://www.mudkissphotography.co.uk/

[123xyz]

Haha, as if anyone here would lash out in such a way... Added Ouija Board & Far-off Places and switched them around a bit, looks OK now


You Have Killed Me
Everyday Is Like Sunday
You're The One For Me, Fatty
How Soon Is Now?
I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris
Ouija Board, Ouija Board
Maladjusted
When Last I Spoke To Carol
Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me
People Are The Same Everywhere
I Know It's Over
To Give (The Reason I Live)
Scandinavia
Black Cloud
Action Is My Middle Name
I Will See You In Far-Off Places
Meat Is Murder
Let Me Kiss You
Speedway
Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want

Still Ill




Thanks for posting the set-list. Doesn't look that bad at all...

[Anonymous]

Gig was a curate's egg - good in parts.

Blisteringly good first 15 mins then got a little portentous in the middle.

Thought Meat is Murder footage was strong stuff - but also about 30 years out of date. I'm a veggie but I know full well that slaughter house practises have moved on a long long way since when that film was made.

Shame Speedway was poorly performed- please please was the real highlight for me - and Still Ill now sounds like a real golden classic., good to be there.

[helen661]

Before People Are The Same Everywhere who did he say had been sacked?

He said Seaman had been sacked. Haven't got the foggiest who he meant though.

[moggs1]

some of my pics here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/moggs1/sets/72157630795682256/

[swiss]

So the meat is murder footage is too over the top in your opinion......why?

Because not everyone there is a morrissey disciple like some are. Everyone knows that morrissey is vegetarian and that's his choice. Many people in the crowd are not and that is their choice. People don't need to be lectured to and can make their own mind up.

[johnnymunro]

Thanks for posting the set-list. Doesn't look that bad at all...

People Are The Same Everywhere
I Know It's Over
To Give (The Reason I Live)
Scandinavia
Black Cloud
Action Is My Middle Name

With the exception of I Know It's Over, none of those songs are much to get excited about. I wish (for what it's worth - nothing) that the set list had evolved a bit over the last year - I last saw him in Hawick and it's about 80% the same. With no new album to perform it should definitely have been shaken up a bit.

Ho Hum - Bring on Edinburgh - I'll be there (20+ Mozzer gigs and counting) and as soon as he takes the stage I'll have forgotten this mini rant!

[coxsparra]

Lord knows.. i love you? (i think?)


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOO5PJ3SyUI&feature=plcp

[Because]

People Are The Same Everywhere
I Know It's Over
To Give (The Reason I Live)
Scandinavia
Black Cloud
Action Is My Middle Name

With the exception of I Know It's Over, none of those songs are much to get excited about. I wish (for what it's worth - nothing) that the set list had evolved a bit over the last year - I last saw him in Hawick and it's about 80% the same. With no new album to perform it should definitely have been shaken up a bit.

Ho Hum - Bring on Edinburgh - I'll be there (20+ Mozzer gigs and counting) and as soon as he takes the stage I'll have forgotten this mini rant!

I'll have to agree. I enjoyed it but it did fall a little flat there. Still, nothing that couldn't be recovered!

[johnnymunro]

the meat is murder footage is also too over the top in my opinion.

morrissey is vegetarian and a campaigner for animal rights shock!

[Anonymous]

Great gig, much love in the audience and as a seasoned Moz concer goer I rank this with the best. Good set list, maybe sagged a bit in the middle, but otherwise great. Moz was in fantastic spirits and seemed very awed during Please, Please Please

[gareth]

why was KY in tears? Being heckled? It's nice to know Morrissey was in good form, the pix posted so far are great and much appreciation to the posters of those!

She did look very upset, and mentioned the woman on one occasion, because it was clearly bothering her. It was an endless barrage of loud and offensive comments. Then she got in an argument with someone else. The security guards eventually had a word with her. We all wanted to see Moz, and went there to see him. There are ways of getting that across though. Also, I think some guy threatened to punch a guy near me in the face if he didn't let him move in front of him. It was all going on!

Anyway, I don't want to dwell on that. You get that stuff at every gig and most of those around me were friendly, even when we did get buffeted about and half trampled each other to death :). It was a great crowd dynamic for a fair part of the gig. I've only seen Morrissey live a couple of times but there's a passion to the crowd. Sometimes it spills over, but for the most part people get really into it and it's wonderful to hear those songs and be there in that moment. I can understand how those who have seen tonnes of Morrissey gigs might have a different take on it though.

[helen661]

Said t shirt; http://t.co/goblRb1f
Presumably it was a one off for tonight's gig?

Speaking of United did anyone else see Brian McClair in The Wellington next to Sinclairs? he was also going to the gig. had a chat and a laugh with him, didn't let on I was a Blue though ;)

[mozzroks]

Anyone know why Boz dragged up?

Find yourself a copy of peepholism not the first time boz has been in drag while playing with morrissey

[Anonymous]

at the front tonight, got to say absolute rubbish, seen better gigs in my local pub. got tickets for edinburgh too, not sure if theres any point goin, im a music fan, im not interested into overweight guitarists dressed as women, im not interested in anti royalist comments, or "i wasnt asked to play at the olympics", the crowd was flat, the setlist was flat, yet im surounded by brainwashed moz fans cheering his every move, honestly when it come to tearing his shirt off in let me kiss you, i was gonna throw my shirt at him. seen him at plymouth, leeds & stoke last year and decent enough gigs, but they say before people die they have one last spurt of energy, sorry to say the end is here, think thats the last time moz wil play manchester and the talk of retiring in 2 years, i think he should stop now. thanks for years of great music, but now its over, RIP morrissey.

[Deal J]

.....also who were the 2 playboy types shown in the still on the backdrop?

Great photo of Adam West and Burt Ward, Batman and Robin from the sixties TV show.
13765

[WhalleyRange]

Great photo of Adam West and Burt Ward, Batman and Robin from the sixties TV show.
13765


Yeah I thought so!

[Anonymous]

Without doubt the worst Morrissey concert i've ever seen....I missed the start as it started too early,so thank you for that Morrissey.

That set list was just appalling,what is he doing? it was horrible,i wanted to dance and enjoy it but it was the same old rubbish and it was rubbish...

It was flat all around me,the crowd were up for it but it was a complete let down,Speedway was destroyed the band were awful(again),it was depressing...thousands turned out and were subject to that,i was shouting for a better set list but it just got worse and worse...to cap it all i'm off to Edinburgh,the only saving grace is that i never paid for parking..

I'm just angry,i look forward to this but i should have learnt my lesson from the last couple of years,it could have been great but it was the opposite..Why,Why,Why .? all the beautiful songs he has and he plays,Carol and Scandinavia and Black cloud...If he can't be bothered than why should i?


Incredible gig. You sound like you have broader issues.

[Anonymous]

My last Morrissey gig, end of.

Off you go.

[Anonymous]

She did look very upset, and mentioned the woman on one occasion, because it was clearly bothering her. It was an endless barrage of loud and offensive comments. Then she got in an argument with someone else. The security guards eventually had a word with her. We all wanted to see Moz, and went there to see him. There are ways of getting that across though. Also, I think some guy threatened to punch a guy near me in the face if he didn't let him move in front of him. It was all going on!

Anyway, I don't want to dwell on that. You get that stuff at every gig and most of those around me were friendly, even when we did get buffeted about and half trampled each other to death :). It was a great crowd dynamic for a fair part of the gig. I've only seen Morrissey live a couple of times but there's a passion to the crowd. Sometimes it spills over, but for the most part people get really into it and it's wonderful to hear those songs and be there in that moment. I can understand how those who have seen tonnes of Morrissey gigs might have a different take on it though.

All i can say is "Damn!!" I've seen Morrissey twice and loved every minute--short as they were. I usually avoid the opening act as most times they don't interest me and KY is one that doesn't interest me. I too like a vibrant crowd dynamic and it can be distressing when it gets out of hand (i'm a whimp so i'll be the first to back out and run :-) ) but the 'getting out of hand' always adds flavor to a concert and i'll just stand back and people watch. KY should be used to the barrage of loud and offensive comments as it seems that not many really want her there. Sorry i could not attend the concert and thanks for the reply Gareth.

[coxsparra]

http://youtu.be/qS9KEb-HLpc
STILL ILL

[Shed]

Without doubt the worst Morrissey concert i've ever seen....I missed the start as it started too early,so thank you for that Morrissey.

That set list was just appalling,what is he doing? it was horrible,i wanted to dance and enjoy it but it was the same old rubbish and it was rubbish...

It was flat all around me,the crowd were up for it but it was a complete let down,Speedway was destroyed the band were awful(again),it was depressing...thousands turned out and were subject to that,i was shouting for a better set list but it just got worse and worse...to cap it all i'm off to Edinburgh,the only saving grace is that i never paid for parking..

I'm just angry,i look forward to this but i should have learnt my lesson from the last couple of years,it could have been great but it was the opposite..Why,Why,Why .? all the beautiful songs he has and he plays,Carol and Scandinavia and Black cloud...If he can't be bothered than why should i?

Tosser!

[coxsparra]

http://youtu.be/4jcX5VKLbhE

[Anonymous]

I thought it was a decent evening really. The atmosphere dipped in the middle with a couple of duff tracks, but generally well worth the money.

One major negative for me though was the treatment dished out toward Kristeen Young. The abuse thrown in her direction made me feel a little uncomfortable; one lady behind me loudly shouted "pretentious t**t" on three separate occasions, there was a feller on my left constantly flicking the V's at her and the chanting of "Morrissey, Morissey..." between tracks also seemed pretty unecessary. Have I missed something here? Why does she have a hate following? I can't say that I'm a massive fan of her music, but there was some real cruelty on display from certain members of the crowd. I actually felt quite sorry for her.

Incidentally, I still can't fathom why anyone would want to warm up at a Morrissey gig. Their efforts are often rewarded with little enthusiasm and vicious heckling.

[Anonymous]

First post so, Hello..:)

SETLIST:

You Have Killed Me
Everyday Is Like Sunday
You're The One For Me, Fatty
How Soon Is Now?
(The Smiths song)
Speedway
I Know It's Over
(The Smiths song)
Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me
(The Smiths song)
Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want
(The Smiths song)
Let Me Kiss You
I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris
To Give (The Reason I Live)
(Frankie Valli cover)
Meat Is Murder
(The Smiths song)
Maladjusted
Scandinavia
Action Is My Middle Name
When Last I Spoke To Carol
Black Cloud
Encore:
Still Ill


He also played:
Ouiji Board
In Far Off Places
People are the same everywhere

[coxsparra]

http://youtu.be/mODZGYOvxIY

Manchester council!

[jwizjam]

Awesome. Loved it. I cried three times. I loved the remark, there is no place like Hulme at the beginning. And I wasn't asked to the opening ceromonies of the olympics because my smile was thought to be too sincere. True Morrissey form. Just what you're looking for. The set list, I thought, was fantastic. Lots of my favorites. Still Ill, Last night I dreamt, I know it's Over, Speedway, Maladjusted just to name a few. The only criticism I have is the drummer was definitely not up to standards. I could sure tell it wasn't Matt behind the kit. He hasn't been there long, so learning curve, I guess. Overall fantastic night. Viva Moz! Thanks again for making me smile widely.

[jwizjam]

He also played:
Ouiji Board
In Far Off Places
People are the same everywhere

Wm up band for Morrissey is defo a thankless job.

[CrystalGeezer]

http://youtu.be/mODZGYOvxIY

Manchester council!

He's sweatin' a bunny. :p

[hand in glove]

Thank you for all of the pictures and video! Seems like an awesome night! Happy for all of you who attended!

[Fan]

Wow. The hype for this show was pretty intense, but it sounds like this show was as stale as the other of this tour. Why can't Morrissey see how stagnant and boring his shows have become? With such a vast catalog of quality songs, he can surely bag the garbage new stuff and add more classics.

If the new material had any quality or promise, then okay; clearly, these songs are not good and many use them as a chance to hit the dunny.

[Alex!]

Just got home to London now.

Was this intended to be a 'My first Morrissey gig' for the teens? Couldn't help but be gobsmacked at the profoundly annoying pairs of teenage girls dotted around the place acting like morons.

Sixth time seeing him, drab setlist that needs a pickup. Will stick to London shows from now on, the north's a strange place.

Had planned on just reading my book through Kristeen Young (which I was already doing) but was disappointed to see the lights dimmed for another 30 odd minutes of nonsense. Ah.

Bedtime.

[Anonymous]

A very disappointing show, far cry from MEN arena 2004.

Morrissey is clearly winding down his career and just going through the motions. The setlist was incredibly poor; mid-tempo "sludge" rock which was made worse by the terrible sound in the venue.
Maybe he is deliberately alienating his audience with choices like Far off places, Meat is murder (a right mess of sound and way too long), Maladjusted, etc.

The arena looked like a full house but the crowd was static and produced only occasional polite applause considering the size of the venue. I think this gig had sold well on the strength of the "2004 return" gig but last night was dull and I'm sure many people would think twice before buying tickets again based on last night's show.

And Morrissey wasn't what I call witty; he made comments about The Royal Family, jubilee weekend, the Olympics and how he has not been "officially" recognised by the City of Manchester. So same old same old. He has become a caricature of himself.

Morrissey desperately needs some strong new material - QUICKLY. The atmosphere and the crowd reaction was flat as a pancake when he played "People are the same". And if all he can come up with is a Frankie Valli cover, then.....well say no more.

[Anonymous]

I am extremely happy that the injured back played so well.
The physiotherapy have done miracles to a sore back of the bassist player.
Long live the discrimination on those who do not deserve the respect of the British childish.
The weight of the pounds have strange but harsh designations...

[Anonymous]

I think the final above setlist is slightly wrong. After I know it's over, it was black cloud. Then the reason I give, then Scandinavia, then meat is murder. I think that's right. Either way it was fantastic and I don't get any of the criticism. His voice was so lovely, the crowd were really going for it, the band were really tight on all the smiths songs. I know it's over was note perfect. Identical to Rank. Just don't get this perpetual criticism. It was a brilliant night. And as for the meat is murder film, well he's an artist with opinion. It did kind of disrupt the vibe but that is what is brilliant about him. He makes you stop and think; albeit sometimes not very comfortably, but good for him. If you don't want to have to think at a gig, just go see Snow Patrol instead. It was a great GREAT night. Onwards, sideways.

[Anonymous]

I don't get why people are angry at the start time being before 9!!! My ticket said doors at 6 starts at 7.30, was I the only one with the ticket that said start times on it or did everyone else's tickets say 9 on them.
Thought the gig itself was fantastic, seen morrissey 30 times now and that was a great one, goods mix of old and new, meat is murder was awesome, however the video footage was very hard to watch and left me numb.
Overall a fantastic gig with some good old fashioned morrissey banter.

[Anonymous]

From reading many of the posts, I am really glad I didn’t go. Morrissey’s live performances have been becoming more and more turgid over the past few years. A few good numbers in between slow, saggy noise produced by fifth-rate ‘musicians’. Why is he still boring everyone with ‘Meat Is Murder’? And ‘Carol’ – it even sounds crap on CD, never mind live. To come to your home city and play just one encore? And judging by how KY was treated, large parts of the audience are as petulant and bitter as the man they have come to see.

[Dave2006]

Gig reviews on Solo are generally bobbins - there were 15,000 of us there last night and we all have different views. Met a woman on the tram home, it was her first ever Moz gig and she was upset that he didn't have a greatest hits set list... For me, it's always great to see Morrissey - it's been 12 months since Bradford, Leeds and York last year, so just great to be able to see him live. looking and sounding great and in a chatty mood.

For what it's worth, here's my two penneth; too many unreleased half finished songs in the middle that only appeal to the die hard fans who devour everything (really, Action is my middle name only has about six lines, that's not a song it's a doodle). The sound during Ouija Board was awful, even if you forgive him for chopping the song up. Speedway is only Speedway because of the sound of a motorcycle engine at the start, so why drop it for an opening riff by Jesse? The band making noise at the end of Meat is Murder is just self indulgence, like a poor prog rock gig, at one stage though I hoped Gustav was trying to segue into Sweet and Tender Hooligan... but, no. On the plus side; HSIN, Fatty, Paris, LMKY and Maladjusted (great to hear after so many years) and the slowed down versions of Please, Please, Please and Still Ill are just devine.

Does anyone know what the lyrics were at the intro to Please, Please, Please? Sung in a Johnny Cash southern style, something about 'when you cry it makes me happy' or 'when you cry it makes me smile' sure it mentioned Dixie as well. As of yet there are no videos on Youtube for Please, Please, Please or for this intro - can anyone help? Has he sung this at previous gigs?

Dave

[Anonymous]

Been to many Morrissey gigs over the years and this wasn't great. It started well and the audience were up for a great night but it dipped and died in the middle, not recovering until the last couple of songs. I was in the seats when I would definitely have had a better time had I been in with the crush. It's all been said above...nobody wants to admit that they've just attended a concert that wasn't great but let's be honest!

[Anonymous]

Gig reviews on Solo are generally bobbins - there were 15,000 of us there last night and we all have different views. Met a woman on the tram home, it was her first ever Moz gig and she was upset that he didn't have a greatest hits set list... For me, it's always great to see Morrissey - it's been 12 months since Bradford, Leeds and York last year, so just great to be able to see him live. looking and sounding great and in a chatty mood.

For what it's worth, here's my two penneth; too many unreleased half finished songs in the middle that only appeal to the die hard fans who devour everything (really, Action is my middle name only has about six lines, that's not a song it's a doodle). The sound during Ouija Board was awful, even if you forgive him for chopping the song up. Speedway is only Speedway because of the sound of a motorcycle engine at the start, so why drop it for an opening riff by Jesse? The band making noise at the end of Meat is Murder is just self indulgence, like a poor prog rock gig, at one stage though I hoped Gustav was trying to segue into Sweet and Tender Hooligan... but, no. On the plus side; HSIN, Fatty, Paris, LMKY and Maladjusted (great to hear after so many years) and the slowed down versions of Please, Please, Please and Still Ill are just devine.

Does anyone know what the lyrics were at the intro to Please, Please, Please? Sung in a Johnny Cash southern style, something about 'when you cry it makes me happy' or 'when you cry it makes me smile' sure it mentioned Dixie as well. As of yet there are no videos on Youtube for Please, Please, Please or for this intro - can anyone help? Has he sung this at previous gigs?

Dave

I've emailed you Dave.

[Dave2006]

Thanks to a rapid email... it appears that the song he sung / spoke as an intro to Please, Please, Please was Irving Berlin's 'Let Me Sing and I'm Happy' - thanks Stephen


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ej8wNL1A10


What care I who makes the laws of a nation
Let those who will take care of it's rights and wrongs
What care I who care for the world's affairs
As long as I can sing this popular song
Let me sing a funny song with crazy words that roll along
And if my song can start you laughing I'm happy, so happy
Let me sing a sad refrain of broken hears that love in vain
And if my song can start you crying I'm happy
Let me croon a low down blues to lift you out of your seat
If my song can reach your shoes
And start you tapping your feet, I'm happy
Let me sing of Dixie's charms
Cotton fields and mammy's arms
And if my song can make you homesick I'm happy
I'm happy
Let me sing of Dixie's charms
Cotton fields and mammy's arms
And if my song can make you homesick I'm happy

http://www.lyricsfreak.com/a/al+jolson/let+me+sing+and+im+happy_20245184.html

Dave

[Guernie]

What a mixed bag of reviews for this show. What I find odd is that of all the shows on this tour, I assumed THIS one would have 4 or 5 songs for the encore. With Moz pulling out "old" favorites for the hometown crowd . So far it has been just 1 time somewhere in the far east (Singapore ? ) that he sung 2 songs for an encore.
However, by the song "Still Ill" you could tell that his voice was fading . He still hung in there and sang from the heart ! Thanks to all who posted reviews, pictures or videos from this show . I've been looking forward to the Manchester show . Viva Moz !!

[Anonymous]

Last night was my last morrissey gig.
The set was flat with no atmosphere whatsoever.
Moz made a few comments which had people smiling but other than that he seemed to ignore his crowd.
The play list was pretty dire with a huge flat spot in the middle,the ageing meat is murder video did nothing but make me think it's a time filler whilst Moz has a break.
I don't want some ancient animal rights movies rammed down my throat when I have paid good money to watch a performer I have followed since The Smiths were formed all those years ago.

The MEN arena is not the best place to watch a gig but this was made even worse by the fact we had a constant queue of people attempting to enter the standing area which blocked our view of the stage for nearly three quarters of an hour.
A couple of decent songs but I'm afraid overall a poor performance.
Sorry Moz but I will not be attending future gigs.

[grant gauld]

Amazing amazing, I love the way he does things , set list was very smooth, and moz looked cool as usual, the drummer is fantastic and fits in so well, a great night, next stop Edinburgh.
Can someone please tell me what the music on screen was b4 he came on, the rockabilly stuff etc, loved it : ))))

[Jack_Moz]

To those (few) moaning about it starting at 8:35. When anywhere had it said Morrissey would start at 9? Didn't see it on the tickets. Did you ring and ask the venue stage times? Yes he has started at 9 in the past, but that was then and this is now.

[Anonymous]

To those (few) moaning about it starting at 8:35. When anywhere had it said Morrissey would start at 9? Didn't see it on the tickets. Did you ring and ask the venue stage times? Yes he has started at 9 in the past, but that was then and this is now.

We had an email from ticket master saying it started at 9.

[divine]

My tenth gig and most disappointing to be honest. It was Saturday night in Manchester and that place could have been rocking but for a poor set list. I don't agree with the poor sound I thought it was OK but we were in right at the back. I know if everyone was to post their fave set list it would all be different and couldn't be done but at the end of the day fans like to hear The Smiths songs and I think one or two more could have been added. Never the less I enjoyed it.

[Anonymous]

To those (few) moaning about it starting at 8:35. When anywhere had it said Morrissey would start at 9? Didn't see it on the tickets. Did you ring and ask the venue stage times? Yes he has started at 9 in the past, but that was then and this is now.

Listen Clever Cloggs. The last time he came on this early (for a regular gig) was 1992, and people got caught out then. So go and park your wise cracks somewhere else. I was lucky enough to arrive bang on time, but the early start meant that a lot of people missed the start, and a lot more had it ruined by people arriving and queuing to get down the stairs.

[WhalleyRange]

Treat 'em mean, keep 'em keen?

[hol]

I was at the gig last night, came from York with my dad, was his 3rd show and my 5th. Was quite surprised to see so many negative comments as i had a really good night. We were both a bit apprehensive what with it being his hometown we thought it might be a bit mental but we were in a great spot 3rows from the front to the left. Had a drunk woman wandering round us for the support act but thankfully she buggered off before Morrissey came on. There were maybe a few different songs i would rather have seen and i was surprised he didn't do more of an encore but we still enjoyed it, thought there were some touching moments like when he said "i loved you" after a song(anyone remember what it was after?) and when he was singing I Know It's Over and there was an inflatable rose that seemed to be working it's way towards him throughout it (though why someone didn't chuck it at the stage for him to catch i don't know) . It was also a nice feeling when everyone around us seemed to be swaying in time for some of the slower songs. I thought his voice sounded better than the last times i'd seen him recently and enjoyed "Gaynor Tension" strutting her stuff, i genuinely thought someone had let their mum have a go on guitar at the beginning lol. I felt Morrissey seemed to enjoy himself and despite what some said he did acknowledge the crowd like when that guy was hauled up for a hug, i was inches i away from shaking his hand and it was a nice touch when he passed the mike around for the audience to have their say. My only disappointment was that they ran out of the t shirts i wanted at the end, would've thought they would've got more in to be honest but i did buy the Oscar Wilde one as a souvenir :)
Also, was a bit of a shame to see the t shirts, i'm not a royalist but Will and Kate seem decent enough.
A quick word on the Meat is Murder "discussion", with regards to the footage, everyone is entitled to their own opinion about it. I'm sure he's turned a lot towards vegetarianism and good for them though i do eat meat myself and even if you are a veggie i'm sure a lot didn't particularly want to see that footage. Yes for a lot of animals it was and is a reality but some are also treat very well. Also, it's a bit unfair to say "well that's the reality of eating meat so there" because that's not really what people pay for when they go to a gig or buy a cd. But hey that's my opinion, i thought it was unnecessary but it didn't ruin our night.
Overall i really enjoyed it, thought it was the best Morrissey gig i've been to in terms of the people that were around us, our comfort, Morrissey's voice and his general performance :)

[hol]

Also, i agree with the person pointing out that the show starts at 7.30 so basically Morrissey can come on anytime after then, in an age with so called artists like Pete Doherty or that tit Axl Rose coming on hours after they're supposed to or not turning up at all people should be grateful that he came on early it's not as if he did a really short set, i made it about 1 hr 3 quarters?? Plus it gave me plenty of chance to get my train home in plenty of time :)

[Anonymous]

To those (few) moaning about it starting at 8:35. When anywhere had it said Morrissey would start at 9? Didn't see it on the tickets. Did you ring and ask the venue stage times? Yes he has started at 9 in the past, but that was then and this is now.

we DID contact the venue in advance and were told Morrissey would be on at 8:45. He did play a longer than average set, but annoying to miss the start

[PonytheTony]

Manchester council well done for giving him nowt the cheeky sod !!!!!!!
Go on son sod off to Edinburgh and don't show your face and your cheek in this manor again.

[Anonymous]

I've never been so disappointed in my entire life. I've seen Morrissey many times and was eagerly awaiting his return to Manchester but was left completely flat. He started 15 mins early and left the stage 45mins early after a 1-song encore. He almost resented the crowd, saying "There's no place like Hulme... oh yes there is." (How would he know? He's not lived in Manchester for about 20 years and when he did he lived in a big semi in Stretford!) At one random point he said "Harpurhey... whatever." The setlist was shocking. 'Ouija Board, Ouija Board' but no 'First of the Gang' or 'Irish Blood'? We were at the back and, as he'd not forked out for screens, could barely see him. He usually puts an interesting image behind him, but we had to settle for a pic of Oscar Wilde with a speech bubble saying 'Who is Morrissey?' that looked like it had been knocked up by a kid on Microsoft Paint. To top it off he said "I've played Israel, I've been given the keys to Tel Aviv, Manchester has given me nothing. What does that tell you?" Considering Elvis Costello and many others refuse to play Israel because of its apartheid system, that's not a flag he wants to wave. The Moz Army will no-doubt blindly tell themselves he was great, but he wasn't. There was a light. But it went out.

[Anonymous]

I'm amazed at how much people dislike 'Black Cloud'.
Just replace 'Black Cloud' with 'Tough Crowd' in the lyrics and you'd see what Morrissey was getting at.

[Anonymous]

I have been to many Morrissey gigs before and have followed him for years. He has a very hardcore following i know, I too love his music very much but last night was very poor and people who say that gig was good must be easily pleased or blindfolded with cotton wool in there ears.

People were being rude to Kristeen Young during the warm up act, a complete lack of respect, it wasn't needed and was uncomfortable.

As for Morrissey the opening songs were good and had the crowd pleased, but it went downhill, for an artist with so many great songs he really knows how to chose his weakest, just my opinion though. Singing Meat is Murder (especially with the footage shown during the song) , then leading into Let Me Kiss You, was extremely odd and didn't work. Boz dressing as a woman isn't funny by the way and those T Shirts saying We Hate Wills and Kate that the band wore is something a child would wear. Tacky Shit.

The band he has now (excluding Boz) is far to heavy for his songs and ruin their original sound. Bring back Alain Whyte, Gary Day and Deano Butterworth, because at the moment it really doesn't work.

As I have said before I love the man and his music, but for the £50 ticket I expect more and for all the fans that think he can do no wrong, he can, he did it last night, and the truth is he has been poor for a few years now and I am fed up singing his praises.

I took a friend along last night who has never seen him before and I was embarrassed because it was such a weak gig, accompanied with drunk idiots everywhere falling into people and foul mouthed aggressive thugs, it was a night to forget.

[Mozfox]

First Morrissey concert I have ever been to and I loved it. A real experience. People who complain about the set-list confuse me, just have to look at his recent concerts to see what the set list was going to be. Agree it wasn't one to get the crowd jumping but I was seated so didn't bother me. Meat is murder was a powerful performance. The encore of "still ill" made it for me, a real crowd pleaser too. I just really enjoyed myself. The quiff, the hilarious anti-establishment digs, the swishing of the microphone. Yes it would have been nice to see "this charming man" or "panic" but I was fully aware he doesn't perform them very often any more.

[trevS]

The tone of internet message boards are the same everywhere...

I'm puzzled by the complaints about the setlists - particularly the folks who claim it shows he 'doesn't care', or 'can't be bothered'. There were some minor annoyances, but of 21 songs, I can point to 4 I didn't want included: Ouija Board, Ouija Board / People are the same Everywhere / Scandanavia / Action is My Middle Name. Even then, it's just me doing the typical whinging of all fans - 'why does he have to play two or three new songs'? 'Why can't he just roam the world playing the same Greatest Hits compilation'?

Personally I think the venue is horrific - there'll never be much intimacy - but the band were excellent, and often more 'rock' than ususal. Overall it went very well...Shame about the abuse of that poor Kirsty things opening. Really felt sorry for her.

[Anonymous]

To those (few) moaning about it starting at 8:35. When anywhere had it said Morrissey would start at 9? Didn't see it on the tickets. Did you ring and ask the venue stage times? Yes he has started at 9 in the past, but that was then and this is now.

I didn't miss the start so I'm not moaning but i got an email yesterday from the venue stating Morrissey would be on at 9pm

[Anonymous]

Last night was my last morrissey gig.
The set was flat with no atmosphere whatsoever.
Moz made a few comments which had people smiling but other than that he seemed to ignore his crowd.
The play list was pretty dire with a huge flat spot in the middle,the ageing meat is murder video did nothing but make me think it's a time filler whilst Moz has a break.
I don't want some ancient animal rights movies rammed down my throat when I have paid good money to watch a performer I have followed since The Smiths were formed all those years ago.

The MEN arena is not the best place to watch a gig but this was made even worse by the fact we had a constant queue of people attempting to enter the standing area which blocked our view of the stage for nearly three quarters of an hour.
A couple of decent songs but I'm afraid overall a poor performance.
Sorry Moz but I will not be attending future gigs.

"Losing in front of your home crowd you wish the ground would open up and take you down"

[Mozfox]

The tone of internet message boards are the same everywhere...

I'm puzzled by the complaints about the setlists - particularly the folks who claim it shows he 'doesn't care', or 'can't be bothered'. There were some minor annoyances, but of 21 songs, I can point to 4 I didn't want included: Ouija Board, Ouija Board / People are the same Everywhere / Scandanavia / Action is My Middle Name. Even then, it's just me doing the typical whinging of all fans - 'why does he have to play two or three new songs'? 'Why can't he just roam the world playing the same Greatest Hits compilation'?

Personally I think the venue is horrific - there'll never be much intimacy - but the band were excellent, and often more 'rock' than ususal. Overall it went very well...Shame about the abuse of that poor Kirsty things opening. Really felt sorry for her.

Oh dear were the people standing abusing her? That is so out of order. What was said?? Some Morrissey fans confuse me. He clearly thinks very highly of her and it baffles me that people would want to hurt her, and by extension hurt Moz. I thought she was a very unique and intense performer. Clearly talented musically but I did have trouble understanding some of her lyrics. I think that was only partly her fault though, some issues with the acoustics maybe.

[Anonymous]

Truly truly disappointed. bad set, bad sound. no atmosphere. complete waste of money

Agreed

[trevS]

I couldn't tell what the abuse was - I was so very far away that at first I genuinely thought Boz Boorer had been replaced by a new multi-instrumentalist who looked like Amy Lame. Embarrassingly I'm not even joking...for a few minutes I felt a bit left out that the rest of the crowd clearly knew her, as they gave her a special cheer!

Anyway - between songs Kristeen was saying things like "Thankfully I can't understand what you're saying", and sounded generally hurt and downbeat. It's tough enough being a support act, but apparently a subsection the crowd at the front seemed to be being pretty awful to her. A couple of the earlier comments suggest it was mainly one distinctive drunken woman though. Bless her. She gave what you want from the support - lively; kooky, strong vocal range. Could have perhaps toned down some of the theatrics by using her range more selectively, but overall she was very interesting.

[Anonymous]

I've seen Morrissey many many times and that was by far the worst gig i have been to. Apart from the fact that the sound was truly awful, I felt the set really sagged in the middle and he lost the crowd and never really got them back. I defend Morrissey through thick and thin but last night was not good. To be honest, i don't rate this band and think Jess Tobias is an average guitarist at best. Obviously Johnny Marr was irreplaceable as a guitarist but Alain Whyte did a hell of a job and really became an essential part of Morrisseys band and a valuable songwriting partner too. Jess Tobias has never convinced me in either of these departments. His playing has no subtlety at all. I think the whole band needs a shake up as they seem to be going through the motions at the moment. I thought with the time that had elapsed between his last gigs on home soil, he would have a new set list but it was virtually the same as his last tour. Sorry. To say the least, Truly disappointed, truly, truly, truly...

[Anonymous]

So glad I stuck to my guns and did'nt buy tickets this was so predictable i.e. Songs/t-shirts/remarks/drag etc
Very sad really and off they go North taking the circus to Edinburgh the only difference maybe the band will wear tarten skirts.
I feel sorry for Edinburgh actually knowing they're about to be shafted

[Ian Nottinghamwaslskeaa]

I have enjoyed the music and content of Morrisey for many years and was looking forward to this concert. But I have to say it was apalling we left early and I didn't appreciate being exposed to videos of animals being killed. I am a vegetarian by choice and I really don't feel it is appropriate for someone to instil his values on others. As for I don't know why i didn't get the keys to the city of Manchester. Well mate after last nights performance you'd be lucky to get a set of car keys.

[Anonymoussitchi 8im-]

I've never been so disappointed in my entire life. I've seen Morrissey many times and was eagerly awaiting his return to Manchester but was left completely flat. He started 15 mins early and left the stage 45mins early after a 1-song encore. He almost resented the crowd, saying "There's no place like Hulme... oh yes there is." (How would he know? He's not lived in Manchester for about 20 years and when he did he lived in a big semi in Stretford!) At one random point he said "Harpurhey... whatever." The setlist was shocking. 'Ouija Board, Ouija Board' but no 'First of the Gang' or 'Irish Blood'? We were at the back and, as he'd not forked out for screens, could barely see him. He usually puts an interesting image behind him, but we had to settle for a pic of Oscar Wilde with a speech bubble saying 'Who is Morrissey?' that looked like it had been knocked up by a kid on Microsoft Paint. To top it off he said "I've played Israel, I've been given the keys to Tel Aviv, Manchester has given me nothing. What does that tell you?" Considering Elvis Costello and many others refuse to play Israel because of its apartheid system, that's not a flag he wants to wave. The Moz Army will no-doubt blindly tell themselves he was great, but he wasn't. There was a light. But it went out.

Get your facts straight before saying that Israel is an "apartheid". Morrissey is the only artist who is not afraid of the pro-Palestinian fanatics and liars. Well done to Morrissey who stands for the truth and the only democracy in the middle east, yes and I mean Israel.

[Anonymous]

Listen Clever Cloggs. The last time he came on this early (for a regular gig) was 1992, and people got caught out then. So go and park your wise cracks somewhere else. I was lucky enough to arrive bang on time, but the early start meant that a lot of people missed the start, and a lot more had it ruined by people arriving and queuing to get down the stairs.

Self correction. The last time was 1991.

[Anonymous]

Tosser!

agreed!

[Anonymous]

Morrissey fans stunned by 'free ticket' giveaway ahead of Manchester Arena show

July 27, 2012

| Printable Version








Buy Lady Gaga Tickets on Ebay

Stunned passers-by were celebrating after a city centre giveaway to see Manchester music legend Morrissey.

A mystery man was reported in the city centre handing out tickets for the former Smiths frontman’s Manchester Arena gig tomorrow. The bonanza happened yesterday afternoon in the trendy Northern Quarter.

Ben Grainger, manager of bar Home Sweet Home, was stunned when he was handed a pair tickets out of the blue.

He said: “It was a bit of a surprise. This guy just came up and offered me the tickets. He said that they were unallocated from the hospitality section. He seemed to have a few and he was just going down the street.” And Twitter user Katie Riley also posted a picture of tickets, saying: “Is this a joke? I’ve just been given two tickets for free! By this guy walking round the Northern Quarter with a wad of them.” Tickets for tomorrow’s show– Morrissey’s only UK show of this year – are still on sale for £35 and £45.

A spokesman for the arena said he was unaware of the handout.

But promoter SJM confirmed a ‘small number’ of unallocated tickets had been given away.


Just found this on the Manchester Evening News website well its a million miles from the Greece gig is'nt it!!!!!

MORRISSEY STILL REMAINS WITHOUT A RECORD CONTRACT (NO WONDER)

[Anonymous]

So did Solomon Walker make a miraculous recovery for Manchester? Still pissed off over Cascais :( Also why weren't The Smiths or Morrissey included in the tribute to great British music for the opening ceremony of the Olympics, or is there too much Irish blood lol?

[Anonymous]

Agreed

According to the Manchester Evening News website there was a guy in the Northern quater with a wad if tickets GIVING them away this could explain why he went on early and could'nt be bothered

[Lifeisapigsty]

Well, this was my 4th moz gig if you can count that abysmal saturday night in Liverpool, but all in all loved every second of last night. Actually managed to get to the front. Got talking to a few people everyone really nice which made the night even better. Can't understand people who thought it was flat, never seen him communicate so much with the crowd.

With regards to the abuse to Kristeen young. As mentioned earlier it was basically just one drunk scouser who decided to hurl abuse after every song. Myself along with a few others confronted her, just to which she turned her abuse to us. Even the security spoke to her 3 times with no result but kristeen did look genuinely hurt. Disappointed it wasnt dealt with properly.

[laika288]

Don't think I have posted here before but I'll give my two cents anyway. This was my second Morrissey gig in as many years being a late starter. I thought there were some excellent tracks sang and played very well (i.e. Everyday is Like Sunday, I Know It's Over etc.), an excellent track played not very well (Speedway) but the new material really does seem lacklustre. Much preferred when I saw him in Stoke last year, the set might have been shorter but at least pretty much everything sounded brilliant and the atmosphere was better. My best mate who has not seen him before said it was awesome and I gave some reluctant accordance so as not to spoil the illusion, it could just about pass with the highlight performances. I thought for a hometown gig there was at least going to be some type of surprise insertion either from his solo catalogue or from The Smiths. Being a certain generation of Morrissey fan I was disappointed that he didn't play more than one off the You Are The Quarry (despite not being either Irish or English I thought one track in particular would have gone down a storm). It might have been longer than last time I saw him but I think I'm right in saying that it was shorter than the gigs he has been playing in Israel and Turkey. It was worth going because of The Smiths tracks he did (hadn't seen Last Night...live, personal favourite) but the solo stuff didn't show as much variation from last time to satisfy me.

P.S. I may have gripes about the setlist and despite not being a vegetarian I think Meat is Murder and the footage used is appropriate.

[Anonymous]

Go to Manchester Evening News website type Morrissey and read the story about tickets being given away in the Northern Quarter.

[Anonymous]

I've never been so disappointed in my entire life. I've seen Morrissey many times and was eagerly awaiting his return to Manchester but was left completely flat. He started 15 mins early and left the stage 45mins early after a 1-song encore. He almost resented the crowd, saying "There's no place like Hulme... oh yes there is." (How would he know? He's not lived in Manchester for about 20 years and when he did he lived in a big semi in Stretford!) At one random point he said "Harpurhey... whatever." The setlist was shocking. 'Ouija Board, Ouija Board' but no 'First of the Gang' or 'Irish Blood'? We were at the back and, as he'd not forked out for screens, could barely see him. He usually puts an interesting image behind him, but we had to settle for a pic of Oscar Wilde with a speech bubble saying 'Who is Morrissey?' that looked like it had been knocked up by a kid on Microsoft Paint. To top it off he said "I've played Israel, I've been given the keys to Tel Aviv, Manchester has given me nothing. What does that tell you?" Considering Elvis Costello and many others refuse to play Israel because of its apartheid system, that's not a flag he wants to wave. The Moz Army will no-doubt blindly tell themselves he was great, but he wasn't. There was a light. But it went out.

Johnny Marr got an honorary doctorate from the University of Salford, so there!
Morrissey has been to Israel, Elvis Costello hasn't, so how would he know what's going on there?
There's no apartheid. The same way you wouldn't use this word to describe the North Ireland conflict.
At least the Irish had a legitimate claim, unlike the Philistines.

[Anonymous]

It was my first ever Morrissey gig and it was amazing. I enjoyed hearing the newer stuff and he seemed to be enjoying himself. I thought Kristeen Young was fantastic and I thought what people were shouting was absolutely digusting, shes a young talented woman with a fantastic voice and performing in front of thousands.

I was right by the moronic couple (some chubby chick and i guy with a blonde ponytail and shaved sides) and i was ready to knock the pair of them out. If either of you read this, you should both be ashamed. Fucking scum!

[Bluebirds]

Missed the start; been to 30+ Moz gigs over the years ans he's never come on that early. Still somewhat compensated by the length of the setlist if not its quality.. Out of all the Manc dates I've done this was definitely the worst. Some witty comments and a fantastic version of Please, Please, Please, Speedway and Still Ill were great. Venue, new songs and the subdued crowd not so.

Stick to smaller venues or if you do play huge arenas chuck some surprises/ greatest hits in there. Thr contrast between 2004 and 2012 suggests retirement in Switzerland living the confirmed bachelor lifestyle is imminent.

[Anonymous]

great gig

[ivor-bigone]

Just got back from a rather wet Manchester...Saturday...Crown & Anchor all afternoon with some silly old git banging Tom Jones records on the free jukebox.Good ale and a good laugh to be honest.
On to the gig...Started well then went pear shaped in the middle,but ended better than it started...I paid £20.00 fuel...£99.00 hotel...£100+ on booze and food...£40 for the ticket and I would pay it all again just to hear STILL ILL ...Just pure class!!!!!!

[Iarwain]

Yeah the abuse directed at KY wasn't from huge sections of the crowd. It was largely from one woman. Who was drunk. And nobody wanted her there. I had the misfortune of being pushed up right against her for the whole gig, she either shouldn't have been allowed into the venue or she should have been kicked out when the abuse first started, there's absolutely no place for that.

It didn't ruin the night though and I honestly don't understand all the negative comments. The setlist could have been better, but then with a back catalogue of hundreds of songs, you can never include everything. His voice was fantastic, the band were pretty good by their standards, and the crowd were fantastic at the front. For the people complaining about the atmosphere, well first of all it's the M.E.N which is never a great venue, and second of all if you want a great and lively atmosphere then get to the front! On the few occasions where I've had seated tickets for gigs, the atmosphere is never anything special. The front section was brilliant, and he interacted with us all quite a lot.

And as for the people moaning that he came on stage 15 minutes early. Why on earth are you getting there at the last minute anyway? The doors opened at 6, I was there from 4. I know people have commitments and many have to travel, but at the end of the day it's not difficult to get there even half an hour before he's on stage.

[Anonymous]

Well, I quite enjoyed myself. He seemed quite chatty and happy, and I like the fact that he sang Still Ill, as that's one of my faves.
Couldn't make out what was on the gang's t shirts though, can someone who was at the front of the mosh pit fill us in?
It was the longest concert he has done actually that I have been to, and I have been to quite a few... They also threw lots of people off guard starting well before 9pm!
Erm, was it Boz dressed in woman's attire? Referred to by Moz as 'Gaynor Tension' ??
Im a happy bunny, even though my ears are shot and me back is fecked...

Much luv to all Mozites...

Harpurhey Harlot x

The T Shirts read, WE HATE WILLIAM AND KATE, they have word them before, and no, I really don'y think it was Boz Boorer in drag!

[Anonymous]

Go to Manchester Evening News website type Morrissey and read the story about tickets being given away in the Northern Quarter.

It wash a story, it was them reporting on a few tweets. Hardly journalism?

It happens on a regular basis and it has nothing to do with the ticket sales proper, but the secondary markets. If people knew the facts in this case, it actually reflects well on Morrissey. But let's not worry about facts. For other major acts the promotors allow the ticket agents to divert an allocation of the best tickets and market them as "fan to fan" secondary sales. This brings in more money for the agent and the promotors do well out of it. They are usually left with unsold tickets which can either be released onto the agents proper retail site, given to media (to promote the artist/band via competitions etc) or given away. So you see, the paper who published this "story" are well and truly in the know about this business, but probably were never offered any spares! So, Morrisseys promotors it seems only allowed the least popular seats to be hived off! Good on them I say!

[BrummieBoy]

Thanks to all.

There seems to be a split between those who loved it and those who were very disappointed. The 'extended' length of the show is curious: if he can sing for this long once, he can do it often, just plan rests between shows better.

I feel arena shows are nearly always a selfish act by the Artist: if you're not in the 1st 100metres from the stage you may as well be watching it on Youtube, and the sound is also often very poor. I saw a show at the Birmingham NIA and went to get a drink during a boring bit. From the back of the Arena it was so dead, yet up front it was much more interesting. I think a residency at various smaller Manchester venues as before would have been more generous to the audience.

Moz seems to have done this as a 'notice me' event in his campaign for another Big Music record deal as Uncleskinny remarked in the thread on the engineered 'invasion' of the Athens gig.


As I mentioned elsewhere, there's a real sub-text to this statement, a frantic waving of hands, saying "I'm still current, I'm still packing 'em in" P.

Surprised his comment about being absent from the Olympic soundtrack of 'British culture' was so mild. Expected / hoped he'd say he'd rather die than allow his music at a Big Mac Donald's Olympics or pay a licencing fee royalty to Mike Joyce, etc.

[Anonymous]

When half the set list is crap songs, is it any wonder he can't sell out a concert in his hometown? Morrissey, start playing the songs you know people want to hear, get yourself a decent band, and put some f**cking effort into writing some decent new songs, maybe then people will want to go see you. And stop talking sh*t about global politics. Israel! Christ, it's a joke, if that's supposed to put the racist accusations to bed. I wonder when he's going to play Pakistan? Not in my lifetime I bet you. And STOP BANGING ON ABOUT ANIMAL RIGHTS AND THE ROYAL FAMILY!! Christ, he's like a stuck record, doesn't he have anything else to talk about?

[WhalleyRange]

http://louderthanwar.com/morrissey-manchester-arena-live-review/

[jason t richardson]

i went to the gig but was frightened ,,when the support singer came on it wasnt very good and was all out of tune and flat,,i did like her version of two little boys though that was good ...i also liked it when i could smell a very slight smell of petrol during her set,,,,,i was pleased with the moving pictures of sparks ,,tha tpleased me that did,,,sadly though there was a very fat woman who looked like a bear in the row in front of me ..this was row d in section 204....she was very animated and blocked my view,,,after about 20 minutes i considered pushing the fat bear woman over the edge of the balcony ..she was with a bearded thin man who looked like a desperate tramp ...the woman /bear kept being happy with every new song and with her happiness my loathing of humanity grew...i did make a small attempt to kick her in the back but my wife stopped me.....by the end of the gig i realised that it was a bear dressed as a woman not the other way round....MORRISSEYwas good at singing and i liked it when he put his head in the drum ,i though tthat was very brave,,,when he gave the mike to the audience i though tthey wasted a chance ,,,i wouldve said "hello everyone i am selling a microwave oven for forty pound sif anyone is interested se eme after the show"....when the gig ended i rushed off stage and saw a glimpse of morrissey in the dressing room and he was just filling in a colouring book of sesame street characters and i noticed he had done a really good job of ernie and bert and only had gone over the line one....i look forward to hearing him sing another song sometime...jason t richardson

[Anonymous]

Wow the gig was truly amazing. I don't understand people complaining about the set list Morrissey has so many songs he won't be able to play everyones favourites all of the time and as for the atmosphere it was amazing, he received superb reception. Well done on the choice of tshirts, a sentiment that many agree with and the Meat is Murder set was very powerful, for those complaining well ignorance may be bliss but Morrissey is a passionate vegetarian and I'm pleased he continues to show people the horrors of the wicked meat industry, the images are a reality and a sad consequence of eating animals. Manchester should follow Tel Aviv's positive move. I can't wait for Edinburgh!

[BrummieBoy]

I have enjoyed the music and content of Morrisey for many years and was looking forward to this concert. But I have to say it was apalling we left early and I didn't appreciate being exposed to videos of animals being killed. I am a vegetarian by choice and I really don't feel it is appropriate for someone to instil his values on others.

An interesting point. At what stage does the right to use powerful images to protest issues of animal welfare become a pornographic indulgence of violence and cruelty itself?

And should there be an age-appropriate warning to stop youngsters getting PTSD from watching a show? If people are warned of lazers and strobe lights, they might also be usefully warned that the show contains distressing scenes of inhuman animal butchery.

[Bluebirds]

Yeah the abuse directed at KY wasn't from huge sections of the crowd. It was largely from one woman. Who was drunk. And nobody wanted her there. I had the misfortune of being pushed up right against her for the whole gig, she either shouldn't have been allowed into the venue or she should have been kicked out when the abuse first started, there's absolutely no place for that.

It didn't ruin the night though and I honestly don't understand all the negative comments. The setlist could have been better, but then with a back catalogue of hundreds of songs, you can never include everything. His voice was fantastic, the band were pretty good by their standards, and the crowd were fantastic at the front. For the people complaining about the atmosphere, well first of all it's the M.E.N which is never a great venue, and second of all if you want a great and lively atmosphere then get to the front! On the few occasions where I've had seated tickets for gigs, the atmosphere is never anything special. The front section was brilliant, and he interacted with us all quite a lot.

And as for the people moaning that he came on stage 15 minutes early. Why on earth are you getting there at the last minute anyway? The doors opened at 6, I was there from 4. I know people have commitments and many have to travel, but at the end of the day it's not difficult to get there even half an hour before he's on stage.

How are people meant to get to the front when they'tr still queuing up to get in on the stairs five songs in? People were told he'd be on 8.45 to 9pm (see thread) so arrived in plenty of time at 8.30, the queues to get in the standing area were ridiculous and must have ruined it for folks in the seats.

It was out of order and inconsiderate to a significant proportion of the paying audience

[Anonymous]

Very poor middle Section

[Anonymous]

Seen Morrissey a good few times now and I would describe last night as "odd" in a way. Strange set list, strange stage times. But that's we keep going to see him. You never know what you will get. Have to say, not a patch on the Stoke gig last year but that may be down to the venue.
Incidentally, are any of the official tees available on line as the one I wanted had sold out?

[Anonymous]

http://louderthanwar.com/morrissey-manchester-arena-live-review/

A really good article, thoroughly enjoyed it.

[Bluebirds]

http://louderthanwar.com/morrissey-manchester-arena-live-review/


There's no such thing as a free lunch, unless you're John fucking Robb.

[bauer24]

We had an email from ticket master saying it started at 9.

Well that's odd because I had an email from Ticketmaster that said this

Dear Ticketmaster customer,
This is a courtesy email regarding the Morrissey event at Manchester Arena, tonight, 28 July 2012.
Please note the runtime for the event is as follows:
Doors: 18:00
Event start: 19:30
Kristeen Young: 19:30 - 20:15
Interval: 20:15 - 20:45
Morrissey: 20:45 - 23:00
Please note that all times are approximates and are subject to change.

Although he didn't go off stage at 11, it was more like 22:10 by my clock.

[Anonymous]

Very poor song choice. Why the heavy reliance on the last album and new songs? The new songs are awful and no wonder record companies won't touch him.

Poor backdrop, no screens, early start and lacklustre middle led to a
a night out that was not worth the £50 paid.

Of the ten plus concerts I have been, other than the Liverpool debacle that was the worst!

[Anonymous]

An interesting point. At what stage does the right to use powerful images to protest issues of animal welfare become a pornographic indulgence of violence and cruelty itself?

And should there be an age-appropriate warning to stop youngsters getting PTSD from watching a show? If people are warned of lazers and strobe lights, they might also be usefully warned that the show contains distressing scenes of inhuman animal butchery.

The images are a reality of eating meat, it isn't fiction, people should be shown what happens to bring that flesh to their plates. If people find it disturbing then just imagine how disturbing it is for the animals.. I'm very suprised that a vegetarian would actually complain about these images, afterall it is images like these that help people to make informed choices about meat and as a vegetarian I thank Morrissey for letting people see the suffering forced on animals,if I had seen images such as these as a child I would have turned vegetarian sooner.

[Anonymous]

For the record. . . . . Screen for videos dropped at bang on 8.30pm. Only caught last couple eg. NYD, but looked like same pre-show as last year. Was on earlier than expected but then this is Moz so anything can happen . . . .after being at Echo Arena debacle every pause makes me wonder !

Set was okay and agree with consensus of good/dragged/good. Finished bang on 10pm. Reception was okay. Not sold out as there were seats at back of upper tier. Touts outside couldn't shift spares either.

MEN is crap venue. Lack of screen was entirely expected so don't complain. Worst is access to standing is through seating so particularly with early start we had queues right in front of us until five songs in.

[sirgordonzola]

Sadly im in the disappointed group. We phoned the venue at about 7.30 to hear a pre=recorded message saying Morrissey would be on at 8.50pm, so arriving at 8.30 we felt we had plenty of time to avoid the quite awful KY and get in for Moz's entrance.
Firstly the standing entrances were very busy and then after queuing for a few minutes we were told we must use another entrance as no one else could use the one we were queuing up in. This happened again in the next queue and then after going around past several entrances we finally 3-songs in, got into the arena after queuing on the stairs for 10mins, blocking the views of the people sat. So straight away the Arena had cocked the organisation up.
I felt the show just didnt get going until the last five songs, it was so up and down, it wasnt an arena set, and although i know he has a hardcore set of fans(im probably one) , if he's gonna play 15000 capacity arenas, he needs to be a bit more genenral in the set-list. Personally i crave he plays my local pub in glossop, playing purely b-sides, but im not gonna get that.
The rants are getting boring, the Olympics joke was crap, not many watched that opening ceremony and didnt feel pride in what Danny Boyle produced and in the country that we live. The Anti Royals (yawn, give it a break moz) and finally the statement about Never getting anything from Manchester after receiving the Key to the City of Tel Aviv, maybe he shouldnt have fucked off from the City 25years ago, and then slag it off at every chance, what do you expect you clown.
Finally Im a Veggie, i made a decision a few years ago not to eat anything that comes on my plate through violence, and i found the film during Meat is Murder painful to watch, one because the scenes were terrible but also because i dont come to a gig to be preached at, and that exactly what that was.
so disappointed with organisation, rants and most of the setlist, not quite worth the £50 i spent i think.

[WhalleyRange]

I didn't get such an email.

If you're going to start early let us know well in advance, he must have known loads would not be there by then. What was the point of it?

[Anonymous]

Well that's odd because I had an email from Ticketmaster that said this

Dear Ticketmaster customer,
This is a courtesy email regarding the Morrissey event at Manchester Arena, tonight, 28 July 2012.
Please note the runtime for the event is as follows:
Doors: 18:00
Event start: 19:30
Kristeen Young: 19:30 - 20:15
Interval: 20:15 - 20:45
Morrissey: 20:45 - 23:00
Please note that all times are approximates and are subject to change.

Although he didn't go off stage at 11, it was more like 22:10 by my clock.

Ticketmaster fail. 23-00 end time is curfew time, ie when they get everyone out of the arena. Some misguided individuals (not you!) have taken this to mean that the gig was supposed to go on until then, and we're moaning about it last night. Whilst you can perhaps forgive them for taking the email information at face value, it shows a lack of knowledge about Morrissey gigs and I just wanted to tell them to shut up!

[Anonymous]

I enjoyed it but could have been so much better I don't expect and did not want a greatest hits concert but there was to much slow stuff looking around during the middle bit plenty around me startred talking texting and stuff as if they were bored.A lot of his playlist although good was better listened to at home not at a concert left feeling dissapointed.

[telegram-sam]

Some of the songs in the set list for Manchester MEN gig are in the wrong order. Here is the correct set list in the order the songs were performed: Entrance - Imperfect List by Big Hard Excellent Fish.
You Have Killed Me / Everyday Is Like Sunday / You're The One For Me, Fatty / How Soon Is Now? / I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris / Ouija Board, Ouija Board / Maladjusted / Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me / When Last I Spoke To Carol / People Are The Same Everywhere / I Know It's Over / To Give (The Reason I Live) / Black Cloud / Scandinavia / Meat Is Murder / Let Me Kiss You / Action Is My Middle Name / I Will See You In Far Off Places / Speedway / Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want // Still Ill

Exitus - Death by Klaus Nomi.

[Because]

Some of the songs in the set list for Manchester MEN gig are in the wrong order. Here is the correct set list in the order the songs were performed: Entrance - Imperfect List by Big Hard Excellent Fish.
You Have Killed Me / Everyday Is Like Sunday / You're The One For Me, Fatty / How Soon Is Now? / I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris / Ouija Board, Ouija Board / Maladjusted / Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me / When Last I Spoke To Carol / People Are The Same Everywhere / I Know It's Over / To Give (The Reason I Live) / Black Cloud / Scandinavia / Meat Is Murder / Let Me Kiss You / Action Is My Middle Name / I Will See You In Far Off Places / Speedway / Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want // Still Ill

Exitus - Death by Klaus Nomi.

Thanks telgram-sam, my memory was a little fuzzy Scandinavia - Please Let Me, glad you've cleared it up!

[BrummieBoy]

The images are a reality of eating meat, it isn't fiction, people should be shown what happens to bring that flesh to their plates. If people find it disturbing then just imagine how disturbing it is for the animals.. I'm very suprised that a vegetarian would actually complain about these images, afterall it is images like these that help people to make informed choices about meat and as a vegetarian I thank Morrissey for letting people see the suffering forced on animals,if I had seen images such as these as a child I would have turned vegetarian sooner.

I certainly agree that the educating people into the reality of their diet choices is important, but I do not agree that subjecting people to horrific imagery necessarily changes their views. I wouldn't educate a teenager about issues of rape by showing them a pornographic representation of the crime. I think the same issue applies to representations of war and famine, there is a limit to what can be stomached and absorbed without turning people off. I'm not that interested in Morrissey's personal views, I'm a parent and I wouldn't want my young teenager daughter exposed to pornographic violence in any medium. Hence, I support the 'parental advisory' stickers on some music products and would advocate the same for some live shows. Morrissey is borderline at the moment. I hope he retains his balance.

http://www.ciwf.org.uk/

[scstock]

For what it's worth, here's my two penneth; too many unreleased half finished songs in the middle that only appeal to the die hard fans who devour everything (really, Action is my middle name only has about six lines, that's not a song it's a doodle). The sound during Ouija Board was awful, even if you forgive him for chopping the song up. Speedway is only Speedway because of the sound of a motorcycle engine at the start, so why drop it for an opening riff by Jesse? The band making noise at the end of Meat is Murder is just self indulgence, like a poor prog rock gig, at one stage though I hoped Gustav was trying to segue into Sweet and Tender Hooligan... but, no. On the plus side; HSIN, Fatty, Paris, LMKY and Maladjusted (great to hear after so many years) and the slowed down versions of Please, Please, Please and Still Ill are just devine.

I'd go along with that as a pretty fair assessment. I had a great tine overall, about 20ft from the front, my 5th Moz gig and brought my teenage daughter along for the first time as she is now a huge fan too.

Shocking that some people were so unpleasant during Kristeen Young's set; she is clearly a virtuoso vocalist and occasionally mesmerising performer, though I could do without the accompaniment of a piano falling down stairs.

[!Viva Hate!]

I think the setlist probably would have worked better in this order:

Maladjusted
You're The One For Me, Fatty
You Have Killed Me
Black Cloud
I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris
Everyday Is Like Sunday
Action Is My Middle Name
People Are The Same Everywhere
I Know It's Over
To Give (The Reason I Live)
Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me
Scandinavia
Ouija Board, Ouija Board
When Last I Spoke To Carol
Meat Is Murder
I Will See You In Far Off Places
Speedway
Let Me Kiss You
Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want
How Soon Is Now?
Still Ill

[luci]

http://louderthanwar.com/morrissey-manchester-arena-live-review/


A great rewiew, dear Rob!!

I think you' ve understood Morrissey spirit.....more than many "fans".

Morrissey gig has been one of the best nights in my life, and I will always feel grateful about it.

THANKS MOZ.

[Ian Nottingham]

An interesting point. At what stage does the right to use powerful images to protest issues of animal welfare become a pornographic indulgence of violence and cruelty itself?

And should there be an age-appropriate warning to stop youngsters getting PTSD from watching a show? If people are warned of lazers and strobe lights, they might also be usefully warned that the show contains distressing scenes of inhuman animal butchery.

I never mentioned porn or PTSD in youngsters (chill out a bit). I was merely asking the question. I am all in favour of and support animal rights and detest cruelty and see the value of such films from an educational perspective but there are many ways of making a point and I personally found last night's distatsteful given the setting and circumstances. But I'm merely expressing my own opinion. I'm not a health and safety or nanny state merchant either. As for the gig one word describes it in my opinion - crap.

As they say in Brum Tarah a bit!

[Anonymous]

Oh, and at the end he dedicated the show in memory of someone (couldn't catch name) Joihn MacBeath (well known on Manchester Music scene died in February)

[scstock]

The setlist was shocking. 'Ouija Board, Ouija Board' but no 'First of the Gang' or 'Irish Blood'?

I've read plenty of people on here say they would be happy to never hear FOTGTD played again! - from what I can tell (including the 4 previous gigs I have been to) he did play it at every single gig since 2004 until recently, along with Irish Blood.

[BrummieBoy]

I've never been so disappointed in my entire life.... We were at the back and, as he'd not forked out for screens, could barely see him.....To top it off he said "I've played Israel, I've been given the keys to Tel Aviv, Manchester has given me nothing. What does that tell you?"

Oh dear. Initially I thought this gig was a success but on further reading of these comments it seems quite troubled on many levels. It's very mean spirited and selfish not to hire side screens for those at the back of an arena gig. No wonder tickets were being given away on the streets of Manchester: if you can't see the performance the ticket is worthless and if you paid, you got ripped off. The increasing frequency of comments deploring the crown management issues at the start are also worrying. Having had a dangerous event in Athens recently, one would hope that his advisors would be able to liaise with the venue to enusre a smooth and safe entrance for excited attendees.

I've no idea why Morrissey has twice decided to play Israel, whether it was a clueless 'Queen at Sun City' fiasco or whether there was some attempted purpose in his visit. I not sure if Morrissey is very well informed politically, if he is he chooses not to share this. Whatever your political views on that situation, he cannot expect the progressive elements within Manchester City Council not to stonewall any attempt to give him 'the keys to the city'. Playing in Israel is an explicity political act and was bound to have consequences. I can see there's some validity to trying to support moderate, secular Israelis as they attempt to avoid a fundamentalist take over of their society by fanantics of either Islam or Judaism, but unless there's a counterpoint to this that also acknowledges the plight of Palestinians, visiting Israel just appears a gormlessly 'tourist' thing to do.

If he really did say "Manchester has given me nothing" in front of nearly 19000 attendees at his 'homecoming' concert, then he needs to get out a calculator and tot up the box office and merchandising. It's borderline insulting if he said this.

It seems that those keen enough to attend hours early and secure a place near the stage had an entirely different experience to the more casual visitor who may have been forced to wait for entrance to a show that started early without sufficient warning and that was badly staged with inadequate provision for those in 'the cheap seats'. Morrissey is in danger of only servicing the 'cult' fan-atics whilst alienating the casually interested observer.

[Because]

If he really did say "Manchester has given me nothing" in front of nearly 19000 attendees at his 'homecoming' concert, then he needs to get out a calculator and tot up the box office and merchandising. It's borderline insulting if he said this.


He said Manchester City Council had given him nothing so factually correct.

[Anonymous]

Is there an official on line merchandise store?

[BrummieBoy]

He said Manchester City Council had given him nothing so factually correct.

I'm sure the issue of honouring Morrissey has been discussed within the City power structures. I'm also sure that his visits to Israel make this imporssible politically. Thank you for confirming that he specifically said "Manchester City Council have given me nothing". I quoted an earlier poster who did not add 'City Council' but seemed to suggest Morrissey was airing a general peeve about Manchester as a city. The quoted comment about an inner city area mentioned then appended with "...whatever" also suggested that he was concerned about his standing within the city.

[Because]

I'm sure the issue of honouring Morrissey has been discussed within the City power structures. I'm also sure that his visits to Israel make this imporssible politically. Thank you for confirming that he specifically said "Manchester City Council have given me nothing". I quoted an earlier poster who did not add 'City Council' but seemed to suggest Morrissey was airing a general peeve about Manchester as a city. The quoted comment about an inner city area mentioned then appended with "...whatever" also suggested that he was concerned about his standing within the city.

Nah, I wouldn't say he holds any more malice for Manchester than usual haha. In fact, I don't think I've ever seen him so cheerful and generally smiley and I'm sure the spirit of his hometown was no small factor in it!

[Bluebirds]

After Morrissey subjecting the crowd to the video for Meat Is Murder I can't have been the only one who was highly amused to see the Golden Arches logo on the exit to the NCPo and the massive queue at the hot dog stall near The Printworls, full of folks sporting their Smiths t-shirts.

Which neatly surmises the gig itself. Preaching to the converted is very laudable but most folks out for a Saturday night want to be entertained.

[Bluebirds]

Oh dear. Initially I thought this gig was a success but on further reading of these comments it seems quite troubled on many levels. It's very mean spirited and selfish not to hire side screens for those at the back of an arena gig. No wonder tickets were being given away on the streets of Manchester: if you can't see the performance the ticket is worthless and if you paid, you got ripped off. The inocreasing frequency of comments deploring the crown management issues at the start are also worrying. Having had a dangerous event in Athens recently, one would hope that his advisors would be able to liaise with the venue to enusre a smooth and safe entrance for excited attendees.

I've no idea why Morrissey has twice decided to play Israel, whether it was a clueless 'Queen at Sun City' fiasco or whether there was some attempted purpose in his visit. I not sure if Morrissey is very well informed politically, if he is he chooses not to share this. Whatever your political views on that situation, he cannot expect the progressive elements within Manchester City Council not to stonewall any attempt to give him 'the keys to the city'. Playing in Israel is an explicity political act and was bound to have consequences. I can see there's some validity to trying to support moderate, secular Israelis as they attempt to avoid a fundamentalist take over of their society by fanantics of either Islam or Judaism, but unless there's a counterpoint to this that also acknowledges the plight of Palestinians, visiting Israel just appears a gormlessly 'tourist' thing to do.

If he really did say "Manchester has given me nothing" in front of nearly 19000 attendees at his 'homecoming' concert, then he needs to get out a calculator and tot up the box office and merchandising. It's borderline insulting if he said this.

It seems that those keen enough to attend hours early and secure a place near the stage had an entirely different experience to the more casual visitor who may have been forced to wait for entrance to a show that started early without sufficient warning and that was badly staged with inadequate provision for those in 'the cheap seats'. Morrissey is in danger of only servicing the 'cult' fan-atics whilst alienating the casually interested observer.

In fairness I thought Morrissey was his usual self-effacing self and the Manchester connections lifted the gig from disappointing to distinctly average.

As for his pro-Israeli stance he is quite renowned for being a contrary bugger who likes winding up the the liberal cognescenti. Either that or he is a member of the Zionist Illumanati, despite his protestations to the contrary.

And there is quite a substantial Jewish community in Manchester

[Anonymous]

He said Manchester City Council had given him nothing so factually correct.

And it was said rather jokingly which many of these simpletons failed to recognise or rather chose to ignore, I'm sure he doesn't give a shit that the council haven't honoured him frankly

[trevS]

Johnny Marr got an honorary doctorate from the University of Salford, so there!
Morrissey has been to Israel, Elvis Costello hasn't, so how would he know what's going on there?
There's no apartheid. The same way you wouldn't use this word to describe the North Ireland conflict.
At least the Irish had a legitimate claim, unlike the Philistines.


It's like with Godwin's Law - all forums can predictably descend into nutjobs ranting about the ME...laughably in this case it involves crude, idiotic racial slurs, and claiming that people can't hold opinions on things if they weren't there themselves...

To actually bring the ranters back to the actual topic of the forum, Morrissey mentioned his trip to Tel Aviv (which is culturally a relatively tolerant and diverse part of Israel), and a few people booed - not really surprising, as that reflects public opinion, which is fair enough . Mozza held up an Israeli flag - I guess a few fans who have ever seen him, ever, at any point are perfectly aware that he likes to provoke, and to be patriotic about wherever he is, which is how he's cultivated a cult following in so many countries.

Frankly, I couldn't care less. It's not really relevant to the thread.

[Anonymous]

I'm sure the issue of honouring Morrissey has been discussed within the City power structures. I'm also sure that his visits to Israel make this imporssible politically. Thank you for confirming that he specifically said "Manchester City Council have given me nothing". I quoted an earlier poster who did not add 'City Council' but seemed to suggest Morrissey was airing a general peeve about Manchester as a city. The quoted comment about an inner city area mentioned then appended with "...whatever" also suggested that he was concerned about his standing within the city.

Jumping to conclusions, while having no real knowledge of the matter in hand, is apparently your MO.
In the same way you have no idea about Israel. Someone wrote on a message boatd that there's apartheid system there, so it must be true.

[hol]

I have to say i am finding funny how the pro Meat Is Murder video people are pointing out to meat eaters that that's how animals are treated in some places as if people don't already know the facts already. Unlike some people i don't look to artists to open my eyes and tell me what to eat etc. I know the facts and choose to be a meat eater, that video hasn't changed my mind whatsoever i'm afraid and that was the only part of the show that i felt was a bit too indulgent.
Oh and also it's not a case of "ignorance is bliss" it's more a case of that's not what we paid £50 for , though on the plus side Boz was on our side in drag and did a good job of distracting us through most of it so all was good

[peters318]

I enjoyed the gig and agree with the comments about the Meat is Murder video. I might be wrong, but I think this video or something similar was used by The Smiths on the Meat is Murder tour. I saw the tour at Newcastle City Hall and seem to recall that they showed something like this video. However my memory is not good these days and plays tricks sometimes.

http://vintagerock.wordpress.com

[Anonymous]

I really enjoyed last night. I was in block 102 So just to the side of the stage. Third time i've seen Moz (1995 and 2003ish) and I thought he sounded really good vocally. I agree with people about the band being too loud and lacking the talent to play the quieter Smiths moments (although Still Ill was brilliant So they can do it) . The thing that annoys me with comments on here are the ones from people that have seen him 20 times in the last year and say "the setlist is always the same" That's because it's the same tour folks! They do have to rehearse these things you know. Plus while i'm ranting at the supposed true fans if you didn't get tickets for every gig the rest of us would stand more of a chance when it's at a small venue and you'd be more surprised with the set list if you left it a year inbetween gigs.
Anyway rant over, in the section where I was the surrounding fans consisted of a pissed up bloke singing over all the quiet ones (yes mate your version of Please Please is much better than Morrissey's) 2 people in front who just talked through everything that wasn't a Smiths song and finally when it did it become acceptable to dance like your listening to Wham in 1985 when listening to Moz? The world really has gone mad.
Sorry that appeared to be a secondary rant. Anyway I enjoyed it despite all that.

[Anonymous]

Didn't think last night was as bad as some people are making out but I didn't have massive expectations before the gig considering it was at the M.E.N. First time I've ever been in seating there and thought the sound was good from where I was positioned although I longed to be at the front (my friends were at the front and said it was quite tame compared to Moz gigs we've been to in the past). Thought his voice sounded strong but can see certain criticisms aimed at the band last night. Putting myself in other peoples shoes, I can see how they might have been disappointed with the set-list and in-particular the middle part but he played many songs that I love. Could tell there were a lot of people just wanting to hear Smiths songs last night, I'd rather he didn't play any, so many Morrissey solo classics could fill those spots on the set-list.

As for his comments throughout the gig, what else do you expect? Pretty much bang on classic Moz Hulme/Olympics/Israel/The Royals. Can't believe people complained about the video he plays along with Meat is Murder, have you read the bloody lyrics!

Feels like his career is coming to a head again, will attend future concerts no matter what or support his decision to call it a day if he so chooses.

P.S would give my right arm for him to play Halifax again! Best Morrissey gig I've been to.

[trevS]

Jumping to conclusions, while having no real knowledge of the matter in hand, is apparently your MO.
In the same way you have no idea about Israel. Someone wrote on a message boatd that there's apartheid system there, so it must be true.

Can I assume that the 'anonymous' comments about Israel are all from you, and that you're not a usual Morrissey fan? If so, can we stick to the topic???

[mozmic_dancer]

http://louderthanwar.com/morrissey-manchester-arena-live-review/

How is it that its the folks that follow him the least understand him the best.

[Anonymous]

idn't think last night was as bad as some people are making out but I didn't have massive expectations before the gig considering it was at the M.E.N. First time I've ever been in seating there and thought the sound was good from where I was positioned although I longed to be at the front (my friends were at the front and said it was quite tame compared to Moz gigs we've been to in the past). Thought his voice sounded strong but can see certain criticisms aimed at the band last night. Putting myself in other peoples shoes, I can see how they might have been disappointed with the set-list and in-particular the middle part but he played many songs that I love. Could tell there were a lot of people just wanting to hear Smiths songs last night, I'd rather he didn't play any, so many Morrissey solo classics could fill those spots on the set-list.

As for his comments throughout the gig, what else do you expect? Pretty much bang on classic Moz Hulme/Olympics/Israel/The Royals. Can't believe people complained about the video he plays along with Meat is Murder, have you read the bloody lyrics!

Feels like his career is coming to a head again, will attend future concerts no matter what or support his decision to call it a day if he so chooses.

P.S would give my right arm for him to play Halifax again! Best Morrissey gig I've been to.

[Anonymous]

Well, the usual tedious Moz-hating shite on here as usual.

No wonder he hates this place.

[Anonymous]

Fantastic.

The set list was pretty strategic, it was so rich with emotional classics that it was easier to give songs like Scandinavia a chance in the middle. 'I know it's over' was probably the best thing I've ever seen, and it's a great sign that the crowd were singing along to people are the same everywhere etc.

Plus he was looking very healthy and in good shape! I'll always cherish that moment leading up to Please, Please, Please...

[karelMoz]

Israel flags on the drums!! nice!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :thumb:

[Uncleskinny]

Well, the usual tedious Moz-hating shite on here as usual.

No wonder he hates this place.

And loads of pro-moz post from people who enjoyed the show. Did you miss those?

P.

[Anonymous]

It's like with Godwin's Law - all forums can predictably descend into nutjobs ranting about the ME...laughably in this case it involves crude, idiotic racial slurs, and claiming that people can't hold opinions on things if they weren't there themselves...

To actually bring the ranters back to the actual topic of the forum, Morrissey mentioned his trip to Tel Aviv (which is culturally a relatively tolerant and diverse part of Israel), and a few people booed - not really surprising, as that reflects public opinion, which is fair enough . Mozza held up an Israeli flag - I guess a few fans who have ever seen him, ever, at any point are perfectly aware that he likes to provoke, and to be patriotic about wherever he is, which is how he's cultivated a cult following in so many countries.

Frankly, I couldn't care less. It's not really relevant to the thread.

For someone who doesn't care, you ranted quite a bit.
The relevant issue was actually that Tel-Aviv municipality honored him while Manchester hasn't.
He hasn't cultivated a cult following, at least in Israel, because he waived their flag, because he only performed there two times.
The ME issue became relevant because Israel is in the ME and some people think Morrissey shouldn't have gone there and shouldn't waive their flag and instead should have boycotted them.
The use of the word apartheid to describe the situation there, only goes to show how poorly educated people are on the subject. Therefore, they can certainly hold an opinion, without having been there, but obviously this is an uneducated opinion. It is as if I would use all the known stereotypes to describe the English people, without even having met an English person in my life. Morrissey evidently had a good time in Israel and good for him.

[singmetosleep]

Some of the crap spouted on here is unreal. Here's my honest response to last night. http://passionsjustlikemine.wordpress.com/2012/07/29/morrissey-manchester-arena-28th-july-2012/

[swiss]

Well, the usual tedious Moz-hating shite on here as usual.

No wonder he hates this place.

Many people have put their usernames to the criticism, me included. I am not a moz hater as you put it. Having been to 15 plus shows over the years, I think that gives me the right to criticise when the night is not as good as I have seen previously.

Too many people blindly follow and can never see any wrong in anything he does.

Starting the concert half an hour earlier than any of his other concerts since 1991 as someone pointed out is just showing complete disrespect to people who have paid £50 for tickets. Luckily I got in just as the concert started but a bloke who stood next to me missed the first 4 songs. He was in at 8.50 pm so plenty of time for the normal 9.05 start time.

The middle part to the set was lacklustre with too many average songs. Speedway was butchered, let me kiss you after Meat is Murder doesn't work, action is my middle name is just a poor song.

Morrissey can deliver much better than this.

[trevS]

For someone who doesn't care, you ranted quite a bit.
The relevant issue was actually that Tel-Aviv municipality honored him while Manchester hasn't.
He hasn't cultivated a cult following, at least in Israel, because he waived their flag, because he only performed there two times.
The ME issue became relevant because Israel is in the ME and some people think Morrissey shouldn't have gone there and shouldn't waive their flag and instead should have boycotted them.
The use of the word apartheid to describe the situation there, only goes to show how poorly educated people are on the subject. Therefore, they can certainly hold an opinion, without having been there, but obviously this is an uneducated opinion. It is as if I would use all the known stereotypes to describe the English people, without even having met an English person in my life. Morrissey evidently had a good time in Israel and good for him.

Etc. etc...while I don't wish to get bogged with lazy, pointless trolling, my "ranting" has I think involved a total of two posts saying that 'people have views either way, which is fair enough' - Morrissey knows this and is always keen to provoke. Also it's unsurprising that anonymous new people pop up on random forums to call other posters anti-Israel, or anti-Palestinian whenever the ME is raised - calling them idiots and suchlike.

I'm sure you're just minutes away from that holy grail of making bringing people round to fully agreeing with your specific positions on ME politics, but this is a MORRISSEY FORUM, and while anonymous political terriers can be fun, they can also be tiresome bores. I'm sorry if you find the suggestion that people have their own views offensive, but there you go...

[Iona Mink]

Some of the crap spouted on here is unreal. Here's my honest response to last night. http://passionsjustlikemine.wordpress.com/2012/07/29/morrissey-manchester-arena-28th-july-2012/

Thanks for the article. I agree. I thought he was in fine voice last night. I think some forget that with a live performance, a great deal of the experience is being in that audience. The hijinks, the things that go wrong, the things that go right and all the bits from when you enter those doors to the moment you exit into the fresh air all contribute to a memorable event.

The entire ritual of seeing him live should be savoured and not be submerged in the wash of petty gripes. Even a bad night is a good night. How else would people prefer to spend their time? A night at home playing scrabble?

[Anonymous]

Etc. etc...while I don't wish to get bogged with lazy, pointless trolling, my "ranting" has I think involved a total of two posts saying that 'people have views either way, which is fair enough' - Morrissey knows this and is always keen to provoke. Also it's unsurprising that anonymous new people pop up on random forums to call other posters anti-Israel, or anti-Palestinian whenever the ME is raised - calling them idiots and suchlike.

I'm sure you're just minutes away from that holy grail of making bringing people round to fully agreeing with your specific positions on ME politics, but this is a MORRISSEY FORUM, and while anonymous political terriers can be fun, they can also be tiresome bores. I'm sorry if you find the suggestion that people have their own views offensive, but there you go...

You seem as intolerant, as the people you describe, calling people "nutjobs" and telling people what they can and can't post.
The discussion was relevant to Morrissey, as he made reference to it in last night's show. You have made your opinion known, let others have their say. Stop dismissing valid points of discussion as pointless trolling. This is a discussion forum.

[Anonymous]

My first outing at a Moz gig after being a fan since my early teens (now 19). Loved the set even though it wasn't packed with what could have been great crowd pleasers. Was annoyed I missed the start after being caught out by the surprisingly early stage time. I was mid-wee when I heard a massive cheer and then the opening to one of my favourites, 'You Have Killed Me' - gutted! Thought the Meat is Murder performance was brill even though it left my stomach feeling pretty weird. Not so much the graphic pictures (I am a veggie), but rather Boz creeping us all out and then the few minutes of white noise at the end. Favourites were Paris, How soon?, Please Please and of course Still Ill at the end. Was a bit disappointed with Speedway as it was one song I was praying for but turned out to be a tad flat. Overall, though, a brilliant first Moz experience that's left me wishing I had an Edinburgh ticket. Managed to bag myself Jesse Tobias's plectrum and one of the "Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me" pillowcases. Thank you Moz!

[Shed]

So glad I stuck to my guns and did'nt buy tickets this was so predictable i.e. Songs/t-shirts/remarks/drag etc
Very sad really and off they go North taking the circus to Edinburgh the only difference maybe the band will wear tarten skirts.
I feel sorry for Edinburgh actually knowing they're about to be shafted


Feel sorry for you you bitter fecker! Didn't go so trying to justify your tightness by accepting the bad reviews whilst ignoring the good ones. Enjoy your sad existence!

[Anonymous]

Loved the gig. Could people please stop farting in the standing area tho.

[Anonymous]

Etc. etc...while I don't wish to get bogged with lazy, pointless trolling, my "ranting" has I think involved a total of two posts saying that 'people have views either way, which is fair enough' - Morrissey knows this and is always keen to provoke. Also it's unsurprising that anonymous new people pop up on random forums to call other posters anti-Israel, or anti-Palestinian whenever the ME is raised - calling them idiots and suchlike.

I'm sure you're just minutes away from that holy grail of making bringing people round to fully agreeing with your specific positions on ME politics, but this is a MORRISSEY FORUM, and while anonymous political terriers can be fun, they can also be tiresome bores. I'm sorry if you find the suggestion that people have their own views offensive, but there you go...

You only joined as a user today! - "anonymous new people pop up call other posters [names]" - by that you mean you?

[Anonymous]

My fourth Morrissey gig and by far the best. Morrissey was in great voice, very chatty, handing over the mic to the audience for a while - you could tell he was enjoying himself. After my initial concerns about the venue being too big/less intimate/rubbish atmosphere compared with somewhere smaller, I was surprised to find this was not the case at all. Up the front, the crowd was pretty wild (many thanks to the man who kept me alive during the first few songs), calming down during the lesser known songs in the middle, and there was a fantastic atmosphere throughout.

Couple of criticisms regarding audience treatment of KY, and the organisation of queues of the part of the Arena (I'd queued for a few hours and ended up behind people who'd turned up 30 mins before doors opened), but all in all worth every penny and certainly an evening I won't forget any time soon.

[Mozfox]

Always been confused when Morrissey says he hates this fan forum, reading some of the comments on here...i am confused no longer.

[Anonymous]

Does anybody know what the poem/lyric morrissey read out before Please, Please, Please was last night? Really beautiful version of Please, Please, Please too. the piano sounded beautiful. Would have liked a few less obscure/new songs, but hey he has such a collection that he can't please everyone can he? Great night.

[Anonymous]

such a disappointing night. i was hoping for two encores (one of them First Of The Gang To Die) and it was Still Ill. It's a good song but not an encore. The first couple of songs were great but the middle 15 songs destroyed it I'm afraid 5/7 of the set. Truly and utterly gutted. Expecting so much and yet recieving very little. Change the script Mozz.

[I Like You]

Very good gig, full of life. Had a great night, was so knackered after that I didn't make it to the after party.

I did think there more idiots near the front than I have ever seen before (I was about 5 rows back), just shouting unfunny things and generally being obnoxious and annoying. The treatment of KY was unacceptable as well.

[trevS]

You only joined as a user today! - "anonymous new people pop up call other posters [names]" - by that you mean you?

Still repeatedly posting at me, even when I don't reply?...please just move on. I stated my opinion - you following random people, abusing them about the ME, or using racial slurs, even when they'd not expressed an opinion on it was silly, even though I wasn't one of those people. If you're not a Morrissey fan, don't spam the pages.

It's been delightful, but lets agree to disagree, and lets try to keep it Morrissey related. If you're after debate on other topics, there are other pages.

[trevS]

It appears quite a few people were riled by the 'Meat is Murder' footage. It was certainly over-the-top, but then he's been trying to needle people with that for 25 years, so I don't think it's surprising. It's also an issue I expect everybody there would agree is important, even if he's laying it on a bit thick.

After all, the song itself has those melodramatic cow noises - it could all be accused of being a bit of 6th form politics, but I thought it was also quite dramatic.

If anything they could have used a bit more video/backdrop.

[Uncleskinny]

Always been confused when Morrissey says he hates this fan forum, reading some of the comments on here...i am confused no longer.

Do you think he hates all the people on here saying it was a great show?

P.

[Anonymous]

Still repeatedly posting at me, even when I don't reply?...please just move on. I stated my opinion - you following random people, abusing them about the ME, or using racial slurs, even when they'd not expressed an opinion on it was silly, even though I wasn't one of those people. If you're not a Morrissey fan, don't spam the pages.

It's been delightful, but lets agree to disagree, and lets try to keep it Morrissey related. If you're after debate on other topics, there are other pages.

I just hope people like you, who abuse this site's system would be banned and all your numerous users are deleted promptly - note to Moderators and Administrators.

[Anonymous]

Having been a Morrissey fan for a long time I was really looking forward to last night's gig, but I came away feeling very disappointed.

The seating!! Being on the bottom row of the seated area, fans trying to get into the standing area were redirected along our row to the single entry point. Since when did Morrissey fans have no manners? No excuse me, sorry, thanks - nothing. Just a constant stream of people squeezing past me whilst I had to remain seated as I have a slipped disc in my back. So an interruped viewpoint made it hard to get into the show.

The big screen on the stage - stupidly I thought was to give the folks at the back a bigger image. No it was for a handful of images including an oft repeated one of Oscar Wilde. My view halfway back wasn't great, god knows what the people at the back saw. As already has been said, if you're putting on a stadium show you need a big screen. He doesn't have special effects, a spectacular light show etc so is much better suited to the smaller more intimate venues in which I have seen him before.

The set list. No, he is never going to please all the fans but I was aching to hear some of my favourites of his, not just The Smiths. Personally I was gutted by the omissions but it's always a gamble, you take your chances. But the show did seem to die in the middle section, and the mood was completely dampened by the photos in Meat is Murder - as a strident animal lover and animal charity supporter, I could not look. End of.

Morrissey. I usually adore his concise sarcastic comments. Last night he stepped over the line for me. He is sounding increasingly like a bitter and twisted party crasher who is sulking because he didn't get an invite to the party. Stop having a go at Manchester. If you still lived here you would be entitled to have a moan alongside the rest of us. Having p****d off to Italy (via America) you gave up your right to complain, and no, you're never going to get the keys to the City of Manchester - you're far to controversial a figure for that as you well know. As for the Olympics, some of your fans are actually feeling quite patriotic at this moment in time - respect it.

All in all I'm not sure I will be willing to fork out so much money again for what was a pretty miserable evening. Me and my sore back wish I'd stayed at home....

[JJKelsall]

This was my first Morrissey gig and I thought that for the most part it was spectacular. I got there early so I had no trouble with the early start, in fact I was quite glad of it. People complaining needed only to look on the website or their tickets to see what time the doors opened. I was standing quite near the front and I heard a lot of the abuse hurled at Kristeen Young, which was far too unessasarry. It must be hard to be an opening act and though I got a little bored after the first couple of songs, I appreciate her musical ability and unuiquness in the face of all the other sell outs these days.

The atmosphere was great for the first few songs. It started to wane a little during the middle, but where I was standing, a lot of fans seemed really enthused to here People Are The Same Everyway, and I really liked Scandanavia. Before this concert, I didn't really like Black Cloud, but I thought it was performed excellently and I was also glad that he played When Last I Spoke To Carol, which again, the crowd seemed to take quite well.

Meat Is Murder was all right, but the instrumental at the end dragged out a little too long, but I respect that Morrissey has his views and wishes to air them, because it's one of the things that sets him apart from the majority of contempory artists. I was happy to hear Oujjia Board, but kind of annoyed that he's cut out the middle because that was really the hook of the song. Smiths songs were performed excelently and really engaged with the crowd. Glad to here Still Ill for the encore because it is one of my favourite Smiths songs. Other highlights were the opening tracks, Let Me Kiss You, Maladjusted, I Know It's Over, Last Night I Dreamt and I Will See You In Far Off Places.

Have to agree too that Speedway was poorly performed, especially in the middle part, though it picked up a little at the end. All in all a great concert with good banter, Morrissey in good voice and the band as great as can be expected. Had a great time and hopefully will be able to see Morrissey in concert again soon.

[phcbr6]

Well, I quite enjoyed myself. He seemed quite chatty and happy, and I like the fact that he sang Still Ill, as that's one of my faves.
Couldn't make out what was on the gang's t shirts though, can someone who was at the front of the mosh pit fill us in?
It was the longest concert he has done actually that I have been to, and I have been to quite a few... They also threw lots of people off guard starting well before 9pm!
Erm, was it Boz dressed in woman's attire? Referred to by Moz as 'Gaynor Tension' ??
Im a happy bunny, even though my ears are shot and me back is fecked...

Much luv to all Mozites...

Harpurhey Harlot x

Their shirts carried the words "We hate William & Kate"with a photo of the Royal Couple!

[Anonymous]

adam, lincoln - gary/belfast; sorry i lost you - hear my voice in your head & think of me kindly xxxxx

[Anonymous]

Does anyone know the names of the songs/ videos played before the band came on?

[phcbr6]

Truly truly disappointed. bad set, bad sound. no atmosphere. complete waste of money

It always staggers me that I go to a Morrissey show, have the best time ever then read that people are disappointed.

I thought it was fantastic, loved Speedway which has also been slated on here and I thought the sound was better than many other times I have been to the MEN Arena.

Morrissey was in a great mood and appeared to enjoy himself which always makes a difference.

To whoever asked about Gaynor Tension, yes that was Boz Boorer!

The only negative for me was the cretins throwing drinks over the crowd - such a juvenile way to behave!

[Anonymous]

And loads of pro-moz post from people who enjoyed the show. Did you miss those?

P.

No I didn't but there are too many of the other kind - it goes beyond fair criticism quite often.

[Anonymous]

As a morrissey gig veteran I have to agree with the negative comments. My main complaints are that there are hundreds of good young bands that could have provided better support than KY as warm up. Seen her on previous tours and she was poor, but seems to be getting worse.
"its so easy to hate" but the band wear t shirts that are personal attacks on individuals. Rant against the system not people who cannot defend themselves.
The setlist is not exciting but if you follow this site you know what youre going to get anyway. My main dissapointment is that I have followed Moz as a songwriter that was always going forward, but this was a set that you could have listened to 18 months ago. As he said himself after " action " thats now an old song. "Arthounds" at brixton was probably the last new song we have heard, and for a songwriter if youre not going forward , you are going nowhere. This is frustrating because I would have to say that having seen him many times, his voice is as good as ever. but i would prefer a set of new material, otherwise you end up looking like a disinterested tribute band.

[Anonymous]

Are you excited Edinburgh ?
Do you have a Northern Quarter area like Manchester ? Check it out for the man with the wad of tickets !!
Don't forget you have to give him the key to the castle and the crown jewels !!
Oh and don't be late or you'll miss the show its work the day after so he'll have you in bed for 9.30 prompt.

[Anonymous]

Without doubt the worst Morrissey concert i've ever seen....I missed the start as it started too early,so thank you for that Morrissey.

That set list was just appalling,what is he doing? it was horrible,i wanted to dance and enjoy it but it was the same old rubbish and it was rubbish...

It was flat all around me,the crowd were up for it but it was a complete let down,Speedway was destroyed the band were awful(again),it was depressing...thousands turned out and were subject to that,i was shouting for a better set list but it just got worse and worse...to cap it all i'm off to Edinburgh,the only saving grace is that i never paid for parking..

I'm just angry,i look forward to this but i should have learnt my lesson from the last couple of years,it could have been great but it was the opposite..Why,Why,Why .? all the beautiful songs he has and he plays,Carol and Scandinavia and Black cloud...If he can't be bothered than why should i?
well dont, he can be bothered he just likes different songs to to you and its his show he can sing what he wants to, I thought it was a great night and I traveled from Glasgow to see him

[Anonymous]

Are you excited Edinburgh ?
Do you have a Northern Quarter area like Manchester ? Check it out for the man with the wad of tickets !!
Don't forget you have to give him the key to the castle and the crown jewels !!
Oh and don't be late or you'll miss the show its work the day after so he'll have you in bed for 9.30 prompt.

Wish I could understand humour like you clearly can.

I suggest getting yourself a life

And you clearly weren't there last night as no one started early and the gig was in full swing at 9:30 not near ending

Hope that helps :)

[Mozfox]

Do you think he hates all the people on here saying it was a great show?

P.

He probably expects the % of these people to be higher...on a fan forum

[Anonymous]

It always staggers me that I go to a Morrissey show, have the best time ever then read that people are disappointed.

I thought it was fantastic, loved Speedway which has also been slated on here and I thought the sound was better than many other times I have been to the MEN Arena.

Morrissey was in a great mood and appeared to enjoy himself which always makes a difference.

To whoever asked about Gaynor Tension, yes that was Boz Boorer!

The only negative for me was the cretins throwing drinks over the crowd - such a juvenile way to behave!

Doesnt ever suprise me in the slightest mate.
every time ive seen him its been like that. take what ever you can from it and leave the whining wankers to wallow in their dismal opinion.
lifes too short to listen to people determined to moan. they werent going to enjoy it no matter what.

Glad you did.

[Anonymous]

It always staggers me that I go to a Morrissey show, have the best time ever then read that people are disappointed.

I thought it was fantastic, loved Speedway which has also been slated on here and I thought the sound was better than many other times I have been to the MEN Arena.

Morrissey was in a great mood and appeared to enjoy himself which always makes a difference.

To whoever asked about Gaynor Tension, yes that was Boz Boorer!

The only negative for me was the cretins throwing drinks over the crowd - such a juvenile way to behave!


Agreed. I've seen Moz many, many times, but last night the arena was packed, the show was fantastic and ought to silence once and for all the tiny band of SoLow critics who trot out the usual idiocies like "should have played G-Mex, the arena will be half empty" or "the new drummer doesn't seem up to it" etc etc. The kind of critics who know best even before the show has actually taken place; probably the same people who "know best" about the band, the new material, the touring schedule, record deals, Morrissey's physique, etc etc etc (*yawns*).

Set lists will never please everyone - everyone has different favourites: some prefer obscure album tracks, others prefer the most familiar songs. Personally I love Maladjusted, Scandinavia and the inspired cover version of To Give (Is The Reason I Live). Others will be wanting a set heavy on early solo material or Smiths songs, but dream on because that' s not going to happen. But I think the majority who criticise the set list do so on the basis that it isn't completely different, night after night, for the duration of an entire tour. Of course, there are some devotees who attend multiple shows (myself included), but for the vast majority of each audience this is the one and only time they'll see Moz in several years, so why on earth should he tailor his set list to cater exclusively for the tiny minority who are following the tour around the country or continent? It simply doesn't make sense. The reception he received last night was phenomenal and the atmosphere was electric - I think only Moz and Judy Garland have managed the trick of making a vast auditorium seem intimate.

As the show unfolded last night, I couldn't help thinking of the small minority who regularly complain that Moz without the original lads just isn't the same and I got to wondering what a bunch of fifty year old "lads" still playing the rockabilly ruffians would be like: utterly pathetic, in my opinion. And I guess the same people would still be knocking him for not changing his act, band, material, etc etc. The point is, most artists evolve and change. It's just simple nostalgia that makes people pine for the early material and the early band of lads, but Moz has never been a nostalgia act. And anyone who is surprised that he'd choose, in his early fifties, to appear on stage with shirtless young men and a bad drag queen clearly hasn't been following the references in the lyrics, cover art, interviews and film clips over the past thirty years or so. The clues were always there.

[Anonymous]

Without doubt the worst Morrissey concert i've ever seen....I missed the start as it started too early,so thank you for that Morrissey.

That set list was just appalling,what is he doing? it was horrible,i wanted to dance and enjoy it but it was the same old rubbish and it was rubbish...

It was flat all around me,the crowd were up for it but it was a complete let down,Speedway was destroyed the band were awful(again),it was depressing...thousands turned out and were subject to that,i was shouting for a better set list but it just got worse and worse...to cap it all i'm off to Edinburgh,the only saving grace is that i never paid for parking..

I'm just angry,i look forward to this but i should have learnt my lesson from the last couple of years,it could have been great but it was the opposite..Why,Why,Why .? all the beautiful songs he has and he plays,Carol and Scandinavia and Black cloud...If he can't be bothered than why should i?

You missed the start? The tickets say 7.30 - so that's YOUR fault, not his.

"I wanted to dance and enjoy it"... go to Rihanna then, you twat. From what I saw last night, EVRYONE was up for it. Apart, apparently, from you.

[Anonymous]

People on here saying it was rubbish and they have been to 15 gigs and it was one of the worst? Well I've been to over 1,000 gigs since 1974 and seen The Smiths/Morrissey on 7 occasions and I thought last night was the best solo performance from Morrissey I've seen. Those who are moaning that they missed the first part of the show because it started too early need to get a grip on themselves. Doors at 6:30, support 7:30, you have only yourself to blame if you weren't there when he started. I mean - you're going to see Morrissey, you've paid your money, WTF were you doing? You tried to second guess the start time and you screwed up "Thank you Morrissey" ??? Any idea how sad that sounds? Maybe next time you should contact Mozza and ask him to hold off starting the gig until you're done in the pub?

The set list was mixed. Flat in the middle for sure, and the atmosphere died a death (forgive the pun) after Meat but a BLAZING start and a great finish. Plenty of old Smiths favourites in there too. All in all a quality night for those of us who could hear it perfectly well, and who saw it from the start even after driving over from Sheffield ;-)

[carnal artist]

Not entirely sure what this proves - but I just looked at the Post-show comments for the Albert Hall gig in 2002 (one of my fav Moz gigs.)

He performed only 3 Smiths songs.

He played (as of then) 5 new songs (all not recorded or on an album at that point)

And the response from everyone on here (at that time) was a pretty much unanimous volley of utter praise.

So - the big question is - has his placed changed, or has Morrissey changed?

http://www.morrissey-solo.com/article.pl?sid=02/09/16/1916233

(As for me - i've seen Morrissey (and the Smiths) something like 20-30 times over the years - and while I enjoyed a lot of last night- it was not a vintage first class gig for me. )

[Anonymous]

It was a great gig apart from the annoying person sat behind me saying i dont like morrissey, why are we here (where they the people who got free tickets.) also they kept going on about the vip bar!! It was great when someone told them to f**k off to the bar!!

[Coley1263]

Before i start it hurts to Say this-I've seen mozz 50 odd times up n down the country and count hugging him on stage at brighton dome in 91 as my fondest memory. I'm afraid this gig was awful.. Before I get slated I am a massive fan and love him dearly... I too missed the start, the set list was awful, with a back catalogue that he has why, why, why black cloud. ( where has "it's not your birthday anymore" been - best song of this era ) Highlights were a day in town with my mates and pls pls pls oh n still ill. The last 2 songs !! , maybe he was a bit off colour and came on early to get off early, I suppose he is 53. Let's hope it was a one off as I was less upset at Liverpool when he walked off. Come on mozz don't " get off the stage " x

[Dave2006]

Does anybody know what the poem/lyric morrissey read out before Please, Please, Please was last night? Really beautiful version of Please, Please, Please too. the piano sounded beautiful. Would have liked a few less obscure/new songs, but hey he has such a collection that he can't please everyone can he? Great night.

Tucked away on page 5 http://www.morrissey-solo.com/threads/124233-Article-Manchester-Manchester-Arena-%28July-28-2012%29-post-show?p=1986728722&viewfull=1#post1986728722

Dave

[Anonymous]

Just take a look at Uuija Board on U-tube absolute garbage version that is and a guest guitarist Hilary Devey from Dragons Den as well. That really is awful you've gotta admit that

[Anonymous]

Also, i agree with the person pointing out that the show starts at 7.30 so basically Morrissey can come on anytime after then, in an age with so called artists like Pete Doherty or that tit Axl Rose coming on hours after they're supposed to or not turning up at all people should be grateful that he came on early it's not as if he did a really short set, i made it about 1 hr 3 quarters?? Plus it gave me plenty of chance to get my train home in plenty of time :)

Absolutely right!

[Anonymous]

I really enjoyed it on the whole. How Soon Is Now sounded great and the gig started so well. Lost it's way towards the end with a number of songs I personally didn't like all in a row. If Morrissey wants to play them thats up to him but would have preferred his to scatter them about the set abit. Picked it up with Still Ill though but wish he could have played more.

Only complaint, as with most gigs, is people being uncourteous or downright moronic. We sat near the front of the seated area and there were a number of idiots clambering over us to jump over the barrier. One idiot, who must have been in his 40s, careered over the barrier and ran into the back of a woman and the woman was clearly in some physical pain for the rest of the night. Gigs for me are supposed to be communal experiences were everyone gets on and spurs everyone have the best possible time they can but too often people are selfish

[Anonymous]

Seen Morrissey a good few times now and I would describe last night as "odd" in a way. Strange set list, strange stage times. But that's we keep going to see him. You never know what you will get. Have to say, not a patch on the Stoke gig last year but that may be down to the venue.
Incidentally, are any of the official tees available on line as the one I wanted had sold out?

I agree the Stoke gig was loads better, however, he still sounded as good as ever. I was a bit disappointed with setlist too, until I've read it tonight - we missed all the best ones as were late getting into the venue - we also thought he was on at 8.45pm and put off leaving as long as we could to avoid getting wet through. Gutted, but a chance meeting with Boz in the chip shop is consolation.

[KarenandAmber]

I've been a Smiths/Morrissey fans for far too many years to count, but this was my first gig to see Morrissey and being such a cool Mum brought along my 16 year old daughter! It was a brilliant gig. As for the footage with Meat is Murder, that where your chicken nuggets come from!

[I Like You]

^
Please tell me Boz was still in drag? :D

[Anonymous]

That set list from RHA in 2002 is out of this world. Love to hear that again....

[Chris Parker]

Although I only live about 8 miles away, I never go to the MEN for gigs anymore, Im disabled and the seats at MEN are at the rear of the venue, prefer to go to NEC or NIA. Been to a few Moz gigs in past but thought £50.00 plus booking fee is a bit much for when he hardly plays over 80 mins. Saw Springsteen at Etihad stadium earlier this year and he played 3 hours plus. Don't really think he is suited to larger venues anyway, but by now people should know what to expect from, a few Smiths songs, a few golden oldies and some mediocre bits. Thought the set list, good start iffy middle, good end and encore was OK. Guess he could do what Gary Numan has done in the past and toured playing a whole old album and then followed by hits and newer stuff. Would love a full Your Arsenal myself, but I guess others have faves

[Anonymous]

Absolutely AMAZING!!! He did loads of smiths stuff and you could tell he did those with extra welly. His voice never once faltered so even the slower more downbeat songs were enjoyable. A real aspiration, and if you were real fans you would be there when the doors opened at 6 o'clock you idiots! Morrissey isn't going to wait around for those who aren't really bothered we should wait for him! Brilliant, top night and this is coming from a 17 year old girl!

[KarenandAmber]

Well after 16 years, of playing The Smiths & Morrissey to my daughter, she came with me to see Morrissey. And in her words 'It's been the best night ever!' So my cunning plan worked!!! MEA wasn't the best venue, and totally agree with Chris Parker the NEC would have been a better venue, as they have the big screens! (eye sight going!) Kinda wished we'd had standing instead of sitting. As for the comments about the footage with Meat is Murder, was it harsh? It's where your chicken nuggets come from! Reality check, meat comes from animals not Tesco! Thank you Morrissey, don't leave it so long next time x

[bauer24]

such a disappointing night. i was hoping for two encores (one of them First Of The Gang To Die) and it was Still Ill. It's a good song but not an encore. The first couple of songs were great but the middle 15 songs destroyed it I'm afraid 5/7 of the set. Truly and utterly gutted. Expecting so much and yet recieving very little. Change the script Mozz.

Still Ill merely, 'a good song'? It's a classic song!

That along with

Ouija Board
Last Night I Dream Somebody Loved Me
You're The One For Me Fatty
Maladjusted
Speedway

would have made it value for my £50

[On-tour-stories]

You missed the start? The tickets say 7.30 - so that's YOUR fault, not his.

"I wanted to dance and enjoy it"... go to Rihanna then, you twat. From what I saw last night, EVRYONE was up for it. Apart, apparently, from you.

You wanted to mope and worship i guess....have you never danced to a Morrissey song?Oh I'm sorry that i wanted to enjoy it,please forgive me,next time i'll go expecting to hate it..

Not everyone was up for it....where i was sitting,there was a lot of texting and other exciting things you can do on a phone..So i'm a twat for voicing my opinion of a Morrissey concert..You don't know me but i'm a twat? i'm a good person and that is uncalled for and over the top..

Hundreds got caught out with that start time....all twats i presume? it is always 9:00,if he came on at 7:30 well he would be playing to about 100 people as well you know...

If you think that was a great show then that's fine and dandy but for me it was awful,i expect more,as i know others do too..If i'm a twat for voicing my opinion then when you meet a real twat...i expect you should get twatted.

[Anonymous]

How ironic that Moz slags off Britain for occupying Northern Ireland and yet displays the flag of a country that is condemned by just about every civilised country in the world for illegally occupying Palestinian territory and allowing settlers to build homes there. He really has lost it!

[Dead Girl]

There are plenty of people that would give almost anything to see Moz anywhere, let alone see him in Manchester. But all many people who went can do is complain. So sad.

[LadyoOoo]

Although I feel like the Meat is Murder video is completely appropriate for the song, it frustrates me how Morrissey can have the audacity to be 'merely' vegetarian when it shows clips of dairy cows and egg-laying chickens being tortured. Other than that, I thought the gig was absolutely fantastic. I agree with a lot of people that the middle started to drag a bit but Still Ill was worth the £50 alone.

[JJKelsall]

I'd like to start by saying that you aren't a twat for voicing your opinion; if the concert wasn't to your taste then that is fine. However, the ticket does say that the doors open at six and coming from someone who got there at six, I had no qualms with Morrissey coming on early. Just because your experience tells you that it always starts at nine, the fact is that the act can come on any time afterwards, there is no crime against that and it is hardly Morrissey's fault that you didn't arrive at the allocated time. Also, the atmosphere where I was standing was really lively; lagged in the middle, but there were some lesser known material there so it was to be expected. But I enjoyed it and am sorry that you didn't.

[Anonymous]

Before People Are The Same Everywhere who did he say had been sacked?

Cascais!!!

[Anonymous]

I'm so glad that the reasonable people have appeared on this thread at last to defend the setlist, the timing, the band - everything. Lots of reasonable comments have been made, I don't need to repeat them. It was a wonderful night.

[Anonymous]

Here's 'Still Ill' closing the show http://youtu.be/fBhKgGQ8Dvo

[Anonymous]

At least the Irish had a legitimate claim, unlike the Philistines.

No, they didn't.

[Anonymous]

Here's 'I Know It's Over' from the show http://youtu.be/otHJwdC9ygs

[@No_such_user]

Odd comments here. Not flat at all, Morrissey very chatty, very happy, very up. Declaring his love for the crowd, pledging never to be further from us, even a stage invader (wearing a 'we hate will and kate' shirt just like the band' managing to traverse the big arena gap. Lots of fun.

Totally agree. People are fucking wierd. This was the chirpiest I've ever seen him. All the audience interraction and plenty of joshing around. This was NOT a flat show. People may have been in flat moods but that is a different matter entirely. I was in a foul mood cos I had shit seated tickets (never again, EVER) but even I ended up loving it. I'm not getting this 'middle of the set lost its way' thing either. If half of these folk hadn't bothered going I might have been in with a chance to get standing tickets.