Bluemood Guest Book

Chicago-Rosemont Theatre
Milwaukee-Marcus Amphitheatre
by Carol

Chicago-Rosemont Theatre-July 27th, 2000
Good fortune struck twice as once again I had first row seats. This time between Bias and Ray. The seating area was small - only 2 rows. The stage was so close, and so low, that I could literally rest my elbows on it.
Of all the concerts I have attended, this one, as far as the band was concerned, was the best. The energy that the guys generated was incredible. All of them seemed to have that extra "spark". Where I was sitting I had plenty of eye contact with Ray and Graeme. Numerous times I caught smiles from them and it was wonderful. Even Bias managed a couple of rare glances and grins.
Justin looked sensational. During "IJAS" he did a few pelvic thrusts that would have put Elvis to shame. He was on a "high" and seemed to be having the time of his life. Those Hayward smiles were endless and he was extremely animated. I was loving every minute of it. John looked great in his new leather pants and he was he usual flirtatious self, entertaining the audience, especially the females on the right side of the stage. Graeme and Gordon were hot on those drums and Paul and Bias were sensational on ???¯?U?keyboards.
At one point Justin was having a problem with his equipment and we were "entertained" by all the other band members, especially Gordon, who got the crowd going by balancing a drumstick on his nose.
After Justin finished "Nights" he got the longest standing ovation I have ever heard. It was amazing and judging by the expression on Justin's face, he was sincerely overwhelmed at the audience's response.
The highlight of my night was during the dino shuffle. When the guys stopped in front of us, I almost went into cardiac arrest. We stood up and with the stage being so close and low, we had eye to eye contact and the distance between us was a mere couple of inches. We got such wonderful smiles and reactions from Justin, John and Ray and I, for one, kept wishing the song would never end.
All too soon the show was over. As I had done at Jones Beach, I presented Justin with a rose. This time it was a red rose to which I had attached a letter, expressing my love and gratitude to Jus and the band for filling my life with such beautiful music and memories. Justin slowly walked over to me, put both hands to his chest, and said "for me"? With that he graciously accepted my gift and smiled the most incredible smile I have ever seen. I could not take my eyes off him - it was as though I was under some kind of magical/mystical spell. Then slowly Justin turned to walk away. It was sad seeing him leave but oh what wonderful memories I have of that night.

Milwaukee - Marcus Amphitheatre - July 29th, 2000
The Milwaukee venue was also great but not as "hot" as the Rosemont show. I must admit that the crowd, at this show, was awesome. They were up and cheering after every song and you would not believe all the finger snapping during "Haunted".
Right next to the amphitheatre ther???¯?U?e was a Germanfest taking place. When it came time for Graeme to introduce "Nothing Changes", he started off by saying "Gutentag". He then stated "that's German", which it is, meaning good day. Anyway, he got lots of laughs and it only goes to prove what a great sense of humor he has. Graeme - always the clown!
At the end of the concert, as Justin was strumming the beginning chords to "Question", fireworks started to light up the sky. They were coming from the festival next store. What incredible timing! Beautiful fireworks to go along with the beautiful music. It was another experience to add to my Moodie memories.
Now the tour is over alas, but the band will be back in the Fall. I am very fortunate because I will be seeing them again, on November 2nd, in Dallas, Texas. Thanks Kathy and Lorraine!

Carol