I was strangely reminded of those wacky experimental nights on MasterChef as we waited for Roger Waters to take the stage. The more impatient punters might say that he was 20-odd minutes late, but I knew the show had already started. The image of a woman sitting on a beach staring out at the waves, her back to us, was projected on a screen in front, as we heard the sounds of the ocean and seagulls all around us, projected out of speakers that filled the room. Just like visiting a Heston Blumenthal restaurant isn’t just about the meal, this was to be a night that wasn’t just about music but a sense of theatre. It set the scene, priming us for what was to come. And then when “Speak To Me” ran into “Breathe,” just as it does on Dark Side of the Moon, we were more than ready for it.
This was a Roger Water show, but it was one which really celebrated that epic breakthrough Pink Floyd album. I was thrilled for that; after he brought us The Wall a few years ago enjoying a set which drew so much from that other big album was so special. The Wall got a look in, with tracks like “Another Brick in the Wall Parts 2 and 3,” and “Mother,” as did other iconic songs like “Wish You Were Here” and but it was really Dark Side of the Moon’s night. I was glad for that, because while I appreciated Roger’s new material on an artistic level it didn’t move me to the same degree. I’m thrilled musicians like him continue to fight the good fight and rail against the machine, especially in this modern political climate, but there was something so special about that music he made with Pink Floyd.
As I said though, this was a show that was about much more than music. It was a sensory spectacular. I’m in two minds about that, honestly. It was incredible to watch the colourful lasers, the light projections, the rising smoke stacks, and the flying pig. But at the same time, Roger said little beyond telling us there’d be a short intermission and introducing his band. I remember seeing him live about 15 years ago and listening to him share a little more about the songs and himself. We still had a flying pig, but there was a bit more balance between the personal and the theatrical. I miss that.
Speaking of the band, I’d be remiss if I didn’t give them props. It might have taken two guitarists to replicate what Dave Gilmour does, but they were excellent. The female vocalists were outstanding. What incredible voices they have. The gentleman who shared vocal duties was also wonderful.
Roger Waters’ Us + Them show took us on a real journey. Before I knew it the final triumphant strains of “Comfortably Numb” had faded away and we were back on that beach with the woman, now joined by her child, as the house lights came up. This show gave us a trip down memory lane, but also felt so dynamic and modern and relevant. For a man of 74 to continue challenging his audience and being truly creative, rather than resting on his laurels, is impressive. It might not have always been to my tastes, but true art rarely is.
Roger Waters’ Us + Them tour plays Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena on February 10, 11, and 13, Adelaide Entertainment Centre on February 16, and Perth Arena on February 20.
Image source: own photos