These last couple of weeks have involved squinting through several of my social media feeds. Of course, the month of October is notorious for being the last month of major touring for many musicians. Thus, the name: Rocktober.
It's widely known as last call before the winter hibernation, before the wave of holiday commitments roll along. This year, however, the local promotion company Goldenvoice thought it would be a good idea to bundle together a group of some of rock's most influential musicians in one festival. Rumors of the lineup were circulating throughout social media and they were subsequently correct: Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan, Roger Waters, Neil Young + Promise of the Real and The Who. All are legendary musicians who defined an era of culture and completely deserve to be a part of any festival. This, inevitably, comes at a huge price.
At first, I was skeptical about what sort of insane amount it would be. I then did the math. Watching each artist separately vs Desert Trip prices. For a typical general admission ($399) would technically be a bargain as far as individual pricing goes. However, this would be like watching these artists from a football field away. I understand each concert deserves a spot on any bucket list but I find that to be a bit ridiculous. I think singer-songwriter Glen Hansard said it best, "None of those people need the money."
It's essentially a cash grab on the cache of each artist. I understand the event, promotion etc all require money to follow through but I think it was blown out of proportion. The concert-going experience can't be pleasant, as most were hundreds of feet away from the stage, without a reserved seat and with poor outdoor sound. I guess I could understand people who pay half the price for Coachella each year since it's nearly half the price. Desert Trip, however, was only worth going to see all legendary artists within the weekend. Other than that, I'd rather catch each artist separately, closer, better sound. Another disappointment is how each artist played a typical version of their touring setlists. Mick and Keith played Jumping Jack Flash, Paul McCartney played Hey Jude, there were predictable setlists throughout. Watching these artists alone would guarantee these songs on any given night.
Luckily for people who were not willing to cough up amounts upwards of $999 a seat were granted a chance at a few of these artists around the time of the shows. Neil Young announced two intimate shows at the Fox Theater in Pomona between both festival weekends, Bob Dylan and The Stones both played shows in Las Vegas, and Paul McCartney announced an surprise show at the tiny Pappy & Harriet's in Pioneertown, CA.
The lucky few who were able to catch these shows were without a doubt treated to a better experience as they were not in a crowd of 70,000 people drying to distinguish what Bob Dylan was singing. I understand Desert Trip will become a tradition and the lineup will be something to look forward to each year but I think the bragging rights will ultimately be the most satisfying. Call me bitter, I just believe that quality sound, some form of intimacy and being able to see the expression on a person's face, should all be requirements before buying a concert ticket.
