Morrissey at The Mann

Morrissey is a God in the music world. Yeah, he's getting older. Sure, he had vocal troubles earlier in the tour, but do not tell me that he has lost anything. I had the pleasure of seeing him for the second time Monday night at the Mann Center in Philly. The swagger is still there, as are the playful swings of the mic chord.

Opening with a powerful "The Queen is Dead," the crowd was into it from the start. Swinging into a flurry of more recent releases, peppered with older solo and Smiths gems, such as "The Boy With The Thorn In His Side" and "Everyday Is Like Sunday," this was a new and old fan pleaser. Morrissey seemed like he was feeling it, interacting with the crowd, grasping hands, and letting a few individuals speak into the microphone. Early in the set, he made mention of the barrier zone between the pit area and the normal seats. After that, all hell broke loose down front and controlled civil disobedience ruled. Barrier jumpers everywhere! The band was wearing identical outfits and was introduced as the Philadelphia Orchestra, however Morrissey flubbed the line. The crowd gave Boz Boorer a large ovation when he was introduced. Ending the first set was "How Soon Is Now?," the crowd was going nuts. I was a little disappointed when the encore consisted of one song, but it was a great one: "Last of the Famous International Playboys."

It was a great show and I can't wait until he comes back. Rumor has it that there will be a fall tour and hopefully the East Coast will be on the itinerary.

Everyday is Like Sunday
Last of the Famous International Playboys
How Soon Is Now?